Jane

The song "Jane" by Barenaked Ladies delves into the complexities of a romantic relationship that is both enchanting and frustrating. The protagonist is captivated by Jane St. Clair, a girl who works at a store. Her smile dazzles him, and their relationship quickly evolves to the point where they live together. The protagonist sings to her while she dyes his hair, symbolizing a deep, albeit unconventional, intimacy. However, Jane is a divided character, embodying both allure and indecision, which leaves the protagonist in a state of emotional limbo.

Jane's character is further explored through her actions and beliefs. She is portrayed as someone who believes that only cowards stay while traitors run, indicating her strong, perhaps rigid, moral compass. Despite the protagonist's efforts to win her over, including bringing her symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Jane remains skeptical and dismissive. She makes him feel like a teenager again, suggesting a sense of nostalgia and youthful innocence, yet she prefers to keep their relationship platonic. This dichotomy highlights Jane's internal conflict and her inability to fully commit to the protagonist.

The song also touches on themes of faithfulness and the protagonist's struggle to convey his feelings. Jane doesn't believe a man can be faithful, and she doesn't give the protagonist a chance to prove otherwise. He writes her a letter, hoping to explain that life could be better together, but his message seems to fall on deaf ears. The song concludes with the protagonist still dazzled by Jane's smile, yet resigned to shoplifting at the store, a metaphor for taking what he can get from their relationship without any real promises or commitments. Jane remains a desired yet elusive figure, leaving the protagonist and listeners pondering the complexities of love and human connection.