You Are Woman, I Am Man

Barbra Streisand's song 'You Are Woman, I Am Man' is a playful and somewhat provocative exploration of traditional gender roles and the dynamics of romantic attraction. The lyrics juxtapose the physical and emotional differences between men and women, highlighting the societal expectations and inherent desires that come with these roles. The repeated line 'You are woman, I am man' underscores the binary nature of these roles, while the playful tone suggests a mutual acknowledgment and acceptance of these differences.

The song delves into the complexities of romantic and sexual attraction, using metaphors related to food and dining to illustrate the interplay between desire and societal norms. The lines 'Furnishing a bed in restaurants' and 'guess who is gonna be dessert?' cleverly use the setting of a meal to hint at the progression from courtship to intimacy. This metaphor extends to the idea of women being 'good girls' who follow societal rules, but also having the agency to break them when 'momma's not around.' The playful questioning of whether to follow societal expectations or personal desires adds depth to the narrative.

Cultural references, such as the mention of 'Sadie' and the humorous contemplation of whether a convent would accept a Jewish girl, add layers of context and humor to the song. These references highlight the internal conflict between societal expectations and personal desires, a theme that resonates with many listeners. The song's playful yet introspective nature invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with gender roles and romantic attraction, making it a timeless piece that continues to captivate audiences.