"Oh Woe Is Me" by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts is a song that expresses a sense of disappointment and disillusionment. The lyrics suggest a feeling of betrayal and a loss of faith in idols and heroes. The song begins with the repetition of "Hey," which could be interpreted as a call for attention or a way to grab the listener's focus. It sets the tone for the frustration that follows. The protagonist reflects on what happened to their heroes, those figures they admired and looked up to. However, these idols have seemingly disappeared, leaving a void. The line "The idols keep on singin', but they don't sound sincere" suggests a sense of insincerity from these figures, possibly implying that they have lost their authenticity or have become disconnected from their fans. The chorus, "Oh, woe is me," is a cry of despair and a repetition of the phrase, emphasizing the feeling of being let down. It reflects a sense of hopelessness and disappointment. The following stanza focuses on the protagonist's personal situation. They mention not having money but only a name, implying that they lack material resources but still have some form of recognition or reputation. The future appears uncertain and hazy, leading to a feeling of frustration and a desire to find someone or something to blame. The repetition of "woe is me" in the chorus serves as a continuation of the feeling of despair, emphasizing that the protagonist is trapped in their situation and feeling sorry for themselves. In the later part of the song, the lyrics touch on the loss of parties and a lover. The speaker had believed that the parties would never end, representing a sense of endless joy and excitement. However, they feel betrayed by losing their only lover, highlighting the idea that even close friends can't always be trusted. Ultimately, "Oh Woe Is Me" portrays a sense of disillusionment, disappointment, and a feeling of being let down by both idols and personal relationships. The repetition of the phrase throughout the song intensifies these emotions, showcasing the protagonist's frustration and despair.
