Jeannie C. Riley's song "Harper Valley P.T.A." tells the story of a widowed wife named Mrs. Johnson and her teenage daughter who attends Harper Valley Junior High. One day, the daughter comes home with a note from the Harper Valley Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.). The note accuses Mrs. Johnson of inappropriate behavior, such as dressing provocatively, drinking, and having relationships with men. In response to the note, Mrs. Johnson decides to confront the P.T.A. at their meeting. She walks into the room wearing a mini-skirt, shocking the members present. Mrs. Johnson then addresses the meeting, voicing her outrage at the hypocrisy of the P.T.A. members. During her speech, she exposes the personal secrets and scandals of the P.T.A. members, such as Bobby Taylor's persistent advances, Mrs. Taylor's infidelity, and Mr. Baker's secretary leaving town for unknown reasons. Mrs. Johnson also questions the widow Jones' activities behind her window shades and Mr. Harper's frequent visits to Kelly's Bar. Lastly, she criticizes the P.T.A. members for judging her as an unfit mother. The song serves as a critique of the judgmental and hypocritical nature of society, specifically the portrayal of small towns and their supposedly upstanding citizens. It highlights the idea that nobody is perfect and that those who point fingers should examine their own lives before passing judgment on others. Overall, "Harper Valley P.T.A." is a country song that uses a relatable story to shed light on societal hypocrisy and the importance of not judging others without understanding their circumstances.
