As a singer, she had both a solo career and a career singing with, first, her family, and later, her husband. As a solo artist, she became somewhat successful with upbeat country tunes of the 1950s, like Juke Box Blues. In 1962 she and Merle Kilgore wrote Ring of Fire. The song documents Carter's feelings of conflict arising from her relationship with Johnny Cash.
She won a Grammy Award in 1999 for her solo album, Press On. Her last album, Wildwood Flower, was released posthumously in 2003 and won two additional Grammys.
Strange Woman
June Carter Cash Lyrics
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Or a strange, strange woman will try to break your heart
Now woman don't feel sad, don't you pity me
I'll be on my feet when you're crawling on your knees
I'll bear the cross of my broken home
But strange, strange woman, can you bear yours alone?
Or a strange, strange woman will try to break your heart
Now he won't marry you and even if he did
How could you be happy with all the things you've hid?
A love without hope based on a cheating lie
Will soon melt away and wither up and die
Oh, a strange, strange woman, don't trust 'em from the start
Or a strange, strange woman will try to break your heart
Oh, a strange, strange woman, will surely break your heart
June Carter Cash's song "Strange Woman" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting strangers, particularly women who may try to break your heart. The lyrics warn against putting faith in those who appear unfamiliar or untrustworthy, especially those with a history of destroying relationships. June uses her own experiences to tell a story of personal struggle and strength, demonstrating that she's capable of bouncing back and surviving even the toughest situations. Despite the hurt and heartbreak that often accompany relationships, June refuses to give up or compromise her values, even when faced with temptation or adversity.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the importance of being cautious and not giving into temptation, especially when it comes to love. The lyrics suggest that women who are strange and unfamiliar should not be trusted, as they may attempt to take advantage of vulnerable men for their own selfish purposes. This serves as a warning to listeners that they should always be aware of their surroundings and the people they encounter, as not everyone may have their best interests at heart.
The verses of the song speak directly to women who have found themselves in similar situations to June. She encourages them to stand strong and not let their emotions get the best of them, reminding them that they are not alone and that they too can overcome their struggles. June provides an example for others to follow, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one can remain resilient and confident.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh, a strange, strange woman, don't trust 'em from the start
Women who are unfamiliar and peculiar will ultimately deceive you.
Or a strange, strange woman will try to break your heart
These strange women will attempt to break your heart.
Now woman don't feel sad, don't you pity me
My dear woman, do not have any feelings of sorrow, nor pity me.
I'll be on my feet when you're crawling on your knees
I will stand tall whilst you are weak and helpless.
I'll bear the cross of my broken home
I must accept the burdens of my shattered household.
But strange, strange woman, can you bear yours alone?
Can these unfamiliar women manage their own struggles by themselves?
Now he won't marry you and even if he did
He will not commit to you, and even if he does,
How could you be happy with all the things you've hid?
How could you find joy in concealing the truth?
A love without hope based on a cheating lie
A false love that is unattainable and filled with deceit
Will soon melt away and wither up and die
Will disintegrate and perish quickly over time.
Oh, a strange, strange woman, will surely break your heart
Beware of these peculiar women, for they will definitely cause emotional harm.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: JUNE CARTER CASH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind