Major Barbara
Major Barbara
Major Barbara sits in the fields
And waits for her crops to grow
She sits in a chair, that she made outta wood
So many many years ago
Major why won’t they grow
You’ve given them water and hope
Major why won’t they grow
She waits all day
And she hopes through the night
For a new day that might show
A bright yellow sun
That’ll make the crops come
And let the old days go
Major why won’t they grow
You’ve given them water and hope
Major why won’t they grow
Major… Look out in your field
Tell me, what do you see shinin’ through?
Major… Look after your fields
And your fields will look after you
Yes they do
Yeah they do
Yeah yeah yeah
Major why won’t they grow
You’ve given them water and hope
Major why won’t they grow
Major… Look out in your fields
Tell me what do you see shinin’ through
Major… Look after your fields
And your fields will look after you
Yes they do
Yeah they do
Yeah yeah yeah
The Struggle and Hope in “Major Barbara”
“Major Barbara” by Aerosmith paints a poignant picture of patience, perseverance, and introspection. The lyrics center around the titular character, Major Barbara, as she tends to her fields, waiting for her crops to grow. This imagery serves as a metaphor for investing time, care, and hope into something meaningful, only to be met with uncertainty. The repeated question, “Major why won’t they grow,” reflects both frustration and longing, resonating with anyone who has faced setbacks despite their best efforts.
Fields as a Reflection of Self
The song subtly suggests that the fields are more than land—they mirror Barbara’s inner world. Lines urging her to “look out in your field” and “look after your fields and your fields will look after you” hint at self-care and the reciprocal nature of nurturing. The song leaves listeners contemplating the relationship between effort, faith, and the unpredictable outcomes of life.
Song Credits
Artist: Aerosmith
Songwriters: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry
Release Year: 1971