The Real Meaning of Hayley Mary's Song 'The Ballad Of Ruby Wednesday' (2024)

“The Ballad of Ruby Wednesday” by Hayley Mary conveys a narrative about a character named Ruby Wednesday who is depicted as someone who lives in the moment, enjoying the night but facing the reality of time slipping away in the morning, symbolizing the passage of time and the transient nature of life.

In the verses, the imagery of Ruby Wednesday losing her mind every night suggests a sense of escapism or living recklessly. The lyrics highlight the contrast between the carefree nights and the harsh realities of the morning, where Ruby realizes how swiftly time is eluding her, indicating themes of reflection and the consequences of one’s actions.

The chorus serves as a reminder to seize the present moment and not to be consumed by regrets or indecision. The mention of “Ruby Thursday” changing her mind implies an opportunity for Ruby to make a choice and commit to living fully in the present rather than dwelling on the past or being hesitant about the future. The unity between individuals, referenced by “there isn’t a difference between you and I,” emphasizes the shared experiences and challenges faced by everyone.

The pre-chorus encourages Ruby to recognize the value in her life and to embrace the opportunities ahead. The repeated phrases like “You got a lot to live for” reinforce a message of optimism and potential for growth. The imagery of a map to follow and an alley to a street symbolize guidance and direction in navigating life’s uncertainties, with the mention of shadows suggesting introspection and self-discovery.

The post-chorus, with its repetition of “Your shadow’s coming out,” could symbolize an emerging awareness or realization dawning on Ruby. The reinforcement of “This is your shadow” and “Here comes your shadow” signifies a moment of clarity or self-empowerment, urging Ruby to confront her inner struggles and embrace her authenticity.

The outro, with its playful tone and repetition of “Hey, hey, hey,” followed by “Shadow time,” could represent a shift towards a newfound perspective or acceptance of oneself. The emphasis on shadows and the concept of “shadow time” could allude to embracing one’s darker or hidden aspects as an essential part of personal growth and self-acceptance.

Overall, “The Ballad of Ruby Wednesday” appears to be a introspective journey of self-discovery, urging the listener to confront the transient nature of time, embrace the present moment, and find strength in acknowledging both the light and shadow within oneself.

Verse 1
Ruby Wednesday had a good time
Every night, she lost her mind
But in the morning, Ruby would find
How quickly the years were passing her by

Pre-Chorus
You got a lot to live for
You got a lot to live for now
You got a lot to live for
This is your shadow
Your shadow's coming out

Chorus
Before Ruby Thursday changes your mind
Commit to this day, my friend, don't leave it behind
There isn't a difference between you and I
Deliver this, baby, 'cause this is your time

Verse 2
Ruby Wednesday racks up her debts
Who could afford a life of regrets?
Haven't you followed? They'rе hedging their bets
If somеone so scattered ends up in a ditch

Pre-Chorus
You got a lot to live for
You got a lot to live for, wow
You got a lot to live for
So Ruby, girl, the time is now
You got a map to follow
There is an alley to my street (This is your shadow)
We can take a smoke, turn a pirouette (Your shadow)
Yeah, this is your silhouette

Chorus
Before Ruby Thursday changes your mind
Commit to this day, my friend, don't leave it behind
There isn't a difference between you and I
Deliver this, baby, 'cause this is your time

Post-Chorus
Your shadow's coming out
Your shadow's coming out
Your shadow's coming out
(Your shadow's coming out)
This is your shadow
(Your shadow's coming out)
Here comes your shadow
(Your shadow's coming out)
This is your shadow
(Your shadow's coming out)
Here comes your shadow
(Your shadow's coming out)
This is your shadow

Outro
(Your shadow's coming out)
?
(Your shadow's coming out)
This is your shadow
(Your shadow's coming out)
Here comes your shadow
Hey, hey, hey
Hey
Shadow time
Shadow time