Introduction
“Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” is a song from the musical “Annie Get Your Gun”, with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. The musical is based on the life of Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter who became famous in the late 1800s. The song is performed by the character Annie Oakley, and it has become one of the most popular songs from the musical. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of “Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” and explore what they mean.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” are playful and witty, with a touch of sarcasm. The song begins with Annie Oakley singing, “The girl that I marry will have to be / As soft and as pink as a nursery.” However, she quickly adds, “The girl I call my own / Must be / A sitter with a gun / Who shoots off a tommy gun.” The rest of the song is filled with similar contradictions, as Annie Oakley describes the type of man she wants, and how difficult it is to find one who can keep up with her.
The Meaning
The lyrics of “Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” are a commentary on gender roles and expectations in the early 1900s. At the time, women were expected to be demure and submissive, and men were expected to be strong and dominant. However, Annie Oakley challenges these expectations by asserting her own strength and independence. She wants a man who can match her in skill and ability, rather than someone who will try to control her.
The song also highlights the challenges that women faced in a male-dominated world. Annie Oakley was a talented sharpshooter, but she had to fight for recognition and respect in a field that was dominated by men. By singing about her desire for a man who can keep up with her, she is asserting her own worth and pushing back against societal expectations.
The Legacy
“Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” has become one of the most beloved songs from “Annie Get Your Gun”, and it has been covered by many artists over the years. The song’s legacy is a testament to the enduring appeal of Annie Oakley’s story, as well as the timeless themes of strength and independence that it embodies.
Conclusion
“Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” is a playful and witty song that challenges gender roles and expectations. It is a testament to the strength and independence of Annie Oakley, and it has become a beloved part of the musical “Annie Get Your Gun”. Whether you are a fan of musicals or simply appreciate clever songwriting, “Can’t Get A Man With A Gun” is a song that is sure to entertain and inspire.
