An Open Letter to Beyonce

Dear Ms. Knowles:

I appreciate that you have used your popularity and resources to bring attention to the plight of single women. However, I disagree with your assertion that you speak for “all the single ladies.”

The narrator of your song, “Single Ladies,” has, indeed, just broken up with her significant other. However, this man is again expressing interest, giving the narrator the opportunity to compare him to another man whose interest she has piqued.

While the narrator does meet the barest requirements for the definition of single, the listener is led to believe that this situation is highly unlikely to last for long. Especially as the recently ex-significant other is “…a man that makes me then takes me/and delivers me to a destiny/to infinity and beyond.” Yowza. I think she may still be into him.

And while the narrator is speaking from a (arguably brief) place of singledom, she is not speaking for all the single ladies, as is asserted in the song. Repeatedly. As in, choruses worth of solely this proclamation. Sadly, situations like this are rare for us Single Ladies.

I am highly appreciative of the accompanying music video with its focus on dance, especially as it evokes the influences of Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon, now part of our proud American dance heritage. However, perhaps in your next hit song you could speak to an issue facing most, if not all, Single Ladies. Here are some suggestions:

1.) Too Much Pasta (So Hard to Cook for One)

2.) Just Won’t Go (Stag to Another Office Party)

3.) The Jar Trick (I’ll Open These Pickles on My Own)

4.) Out of Batteries (Should’ve Bought a Plug-in)

Thank you for your time. And in case you’re wondering, yes, I jump up and dance when I hear this song. Every. Freaking. Time.

Sincerely,

Single Girl in MadTown