Beast Of Burden - Remastered 1994 album art

Beast Of Burden - Remastered 1994

by The Rolling Stones

Summary

"Beast Of Burden" is about longing for love and intimacy while rejecting the idea of being someone else's burden. The singer is tired of being used and wants a deeper connection instead.

Full Analysis

The song explores the struggle between wanting to be loved and the fear of being taken for granted. The singer expresses a mix of vulnerability and strength, saying they won't be a burden to anyone. It’s like a plea for a real relationship, not just a superficial connection. The repeated refrain emphasizes their unwillingness to be treated poorly, while still craving affection.

Verse 1

I'll never be your beast of burden
My back is broad, but it's a hurting
All I want, for you to make love to me
I'll never be your beast of burden

In this verse, the singer sets the tone by declaring they won’t be someone else’s burden. The imagery of a broad back suggests they’ve carried a lot, but it’s causing pain. They also share a simple desire for love, showing that beneath their tough exterior, they crave intimacy. This contrast highlights the emotional weight they feel.

Chorus

Am I hard enough?
Am I rough enough?
Am I rich enough?
I'm not too blind to see

The chorus shifts to self-reflection, questioning their own worthiness. It’s almost like they’re asking if they meet the standards set by their partner. This moment of vulnerability adds depth, revealing insecurities that contrast with their earlier declaration. It emphasizes a need for affirmation in the relationship.

Verse 2

I'll never be your beast of burden
So let's go home and draw the curtains
Music on the radio
Come on, baby, make sweet love to me

Here, the singer repeats their refusal to be a burden but suggests a more intimate setting. Wanting to go home and draw the curtains implies a desire for privacy and closeness. It’s a sweet invitation to escape reality and connect on a deeper level, showing they want more than just physical affection.

Chorus

Am I hard enough?
Am I rough enough?
Am I rich enough?
I'm not too blind to see

The chorus repeats, reinforcing their insecurities. The singer still seeks validation from their partner, hinting at a deeper longing for acceptance. This repetition drives home the emotional tension in their relationship, balancing their assertiveness with vulnerability.

Bridge

Oh, little sister
Pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty girl
You're a pretty, pretty, such a pretty, pretty, pretty girl
Come on, baby, please, please, please

In the bridge, the singer shifts to a more tender tone, addressing the partner directly. The repetition of "pretty" creates a playful and affectionate vibe. It’s like they’re trying to charm their partner, showing that despite the struggles, there’s a genuine desire for connection and affection.

Outro

I'll tell you, you can put me out on the street
Put me out with no shoes on my feet
But put me out, put me out
Put me out of misery, yeah
All your sickness, I can suck it up
Throw it all at me, I can shrug it off
There's one thing, baby, I don't understand
You keep on telling me I ain't your kind of man

The outro brings a raw honesty. The singer expresses how they can handle a lot but still struggle with rejection. They seem ready to endure hardships for love but don’t understand why they’re not seen as enough. It’s a powerful moment that caps off the song, highlighting their emotional turmoil and desire for acceptance.

Closing Thoughts

"Beast Of Burden" is a rich exploration of love, vulnerability, and the desire for connection. The singer doesn’t want to be a burden, yet they’re open about their needs and insecurities. It’s relatable and heartfelt, making it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone looking for true love without the baggage.

Full Lyrics

I'll never be your beast of burden
My back is broad, but it's a hurting
All I want, for you to make love to me
I'll never be your beast of burden
I've walked for miles, my feet are hurting
All I want is for you to make love to me

Am I hard enough?
Am I rough enough?
Am I rich enough?
I'm not too blind to see

I'll never be your beast of burden
So let's go home and draw the curtains
Music on the radio
Come on, baby, make sweet love to me

Am I hard enough?
Am I rough enough?
Am I rich enough?
I'm not too blind to see

Oh, little sister
Pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty girl
You're a pretty, pretty, such a pretty, pretty, pretty girl
Come on, baby, please, please, please

I'll tell you, you can put me out on the street
Put me out with no shoes on my feet
But put me out, put me out
Put me out of misery, yeah
All your sickness, I can suck it up
Throw it all at me, I can shrug it off
There's one thing, baby, I don't understand
You keep on telling me I ain't your kind of man

Ain't I rough enough? Ooh, honey
Ain't I tough enough?
Ain't I rich enough, in love enough?
Ooh, ooh, please

I'll never be your beast of burden
I'll never be your beast of burden
Never, never, never, never, never, never, never be
I'll never be your beast of burden
I've walked for miles, my feet are hurting
All I want is you to make love to me
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