Strong Woman

Jen Cloher's song "Strong Woman" is a powerful exploration of identity, gender roles, and the strength passed down through generations of women. The lyrics begin with a reflection on childhood, where the narrator expresses a desire to embody the freedom and privileges associated with being male. This longing is symbolized by the wish to be "Jon," a name that represents a world where short hair and a lack of curves allow for activities and expressions typically reserved for boys, such as riding bikes and kissing girls.

As the song progresses, Cloher delves into the challenges of growing up as a young woman in a restrictive environment, specifically a Catholic girls' school. The lyrics highlight the struggle of not fitting into traditional gender roles and the societal expectations that equate love with sin. This experience of standing out and embracing one's true self is a testament to the narrator's resilience and determination to express her identity despite societal constraints.

The chorus of the song is a declaration of strength and empowerment, acknowledging the legacy of strong women in the narrator's family. The phrase "Kia kaha," a Maori expression meaning "be strong," underscores the cultural and familial roots of this strength. The song celebrates the idea that strength is not only inherent but also inherited, passed down from mother to daughter, along with the desire for respect and the courage to demand more from life. Through "Strong Woman," Jen Cloher offers a poignant commentary on the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in a world that often marginalizes female voices.