Although this song is not particularly a part of the standard 80s rock formula, it takes on gendered roles.
Masculinity:
- Head of household- Tommy whispers Baby, it’s okay, someday“,
- Hard-working- “Tommy used to work on the docks“
- Tough- “We’ve got to hold on to what we’ve got
It doesn’t make a difference if we make it or not”
Tommy and Gina come from a hardworking background that barely makes by. Tommy takes on this head-of-the-house persona, with a tough attitude about life and works to make ends meet. He tries to reassure his partner, Gina, that no matter what happens to them that they have each other.
Feminity
- Hopeful- “She says, we’ve got to hold on to what we’ve got”
- Loves her man- “She brings home her pay, for love, for love”
- Emotional- “When she cries in the night…”
Gina takes on a stereotypical role. She is a waitress at a diner where she works long shifts. She is emotional about what is going to happen to her and her partner Tom. She is very much in love with Tommy and wants the best for their relationship.
Shared by: Ashley Molidor
Image Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/383650461977205588/