Song meaning of A Woman Is a Sometime Thing by Harry Belafonte

"A Woman Is a Sometime Thing" by Harry Belafonte is a poignant song that delves into the complexities of relationships and the transient nature of love. The lyrics caution against the unpredictable and fleeting nature of women, portraying them as figures who can both love and hurt. The repeated refrain of "Yes a woman is a sometime thing" emphasizes the idea that women can be inconsistent in their affections and actions.

The opening lines, "Listen to yo' daddy warn you / Fore you start a-traveling," suggest a sense of foreboding and advice from a paternal figure about the potential pitfalls of romantic relationships. The imagery of being tied to a mother's apron strings and later being shamed and blamed by her sets the stage for a narrative of dependency and disappointment in love.

The lyrics also touch on themes of betrayal and abandonment, with lines like "Don't you never let a woman grieve you / Jus' cause she got yo' weddin' ring" highlighting the idea that a woman's love can be fickle and deceptive. The warning that a woman may "take yo' clothes and leave you" speaks to the idea of being left vulnerable and exposed after a relationship ends.

Overall, "A Woman Is a Sometime Thing" serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of love and relationships, urging listeners to approach romantic entanglements with a sense of awareness and caution. The song's evocative lyrics and haunting melody combine to create a powerful reflection on the transient nature of love and the potential for both joy and heartbreak in relationships.