The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Oh, Bondage! Up Yours!" by the artist "X-Ray Spex"

The song "Oh, Bondage! Up Yours!" by the punk rock band X-Ray Spex, fronted by Poly Styrene, challenges traditional gender roles and societal expectations, particularly towards women.

The title itself sets the tone of protest and rebellion. The line "Some people think little girls should be seen and not heard" refers to patriarchal norms that limit women's freedom of expression. The protagonist's response – "Well, I think... Oh, bondage, up yours!" – can be interpreted in two ways. On the one hand, it's a sarcastic agreement to submission, mocking the very idea of a "woman's place." On the other hand, it's a conscious choice, a provocation aimed at shocking and breaking down stereotypes.

The recurring refrain "Oh, bondage, up yours! Oh, bondage, I'm yours!" emphasizes the inner contradiction and struggle of the protagonist. She plays with the concept of bondage, showing that she can be free even while embracing the roles imposed on her. She mocks stereotypes of female weakness and victimhood, deliberately exaggerating them ("Bind me, tie me up... I wanna be your slave").

The lyrics also criticize the consumerism and conformism of modern society ("Chain gang consumer, cigarette smoker – I consume you all"). The protagonist feels like a "chained slave" in a world of consumption where people become slaves to their desires.

Ultimately, "Oh, Bondage! Up Yours!" is a call for liberation from all forms of oppression, be it gender stereotypes, societal pressure, or one's own fears.