The Story
“Jolene” is a masterpiece of heartbreak and insecurity. In the song, Dolly pleads with a stunningly beautiful woman named Jolene to not steal her man. The lyrics portray a sense of desperation and sadness as the singer recognizes Jolene’s power but tries to protect what she has.
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Dolly Parton: Jolene Lyrics
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can
Your beauty is beyond compare
With flaming locks of auburn hair
With ivory skin and eyes of emerald green
Your smile is like a breath of spring
Your voice is soft like summer rain
And I cannot compete with you
Jolene
He talks about you in his sleep
And there’s nothing I can do to keep
From crying when he calls your name
Jolene
And I can easily understand
How you could easily take my man
But you don’t know what he means to me
Jolene
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can
You could have your choice of men
But I could never love again
He’s the only one for me
Jolene
I had to have this talk with you
My happiness depends on you
And whatever you decide to do
Jolene
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can
Jolene, Jolene
Themes
- Insecurity and Jealousy: The song’s core theme is the fear of losing someone you love to someone seemingly more beautiful or desirable. Dolly’s vivid description of Jolene fuels her own insecurity.
- The Power of Feminine Beauty: Dolly emphasizes Jolene’s beauty – her “flaming locks of auburn hair,” “emerald eyes,” and “ivory skin” – creating a sense of competition and emphasizing the potential power beauty holds in captivating a man.
- Desperation and Vulnerability: The repeated plea “please don’t take my man” highlights a woman on the verge of losing what she treasures most. It’s a raw and exposed look at the vulnerability love can create.
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Why is it so popular?
- Relatability: Although over-the-top in its portrayal, the themes of jealousy and the pain of potential loss resonate deeply with many people.
- Dolly’s Vocal Performance: Dolly’s voice, filled with both sadness and strength, perfectly conveys the emotion of the song.
- Catchy Melody: The simple but unforgettable melody makes the song easy to remember, even if you haven’t heard it in years.
