Reconsidered merit III

The bass line, seemingly played on strings made from rubber bands, got the song off to a bad start for me.  For years, I told people it was one of the most off-putting intros to any pop song I'd heard.  Lyrically and vocally, the song didn't appeal to me, either.  Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'" topped the charts in 1966.  Although it still isn't one of my favorite songs, I understand why it resonates with so many listeners.  For some listeners, it must feel cathartic to hear after you've been betrayed.  Sinatra sings the lyrics with resolved toughness, a quality that's often compromised after being jilted.  Being reminded that a rejection isn't necessarily the end of the world has to be reassuring.  In addition, if you want a constant reminder of inner strength to play in your mind, the chorus of "These Boots..." is nearly impossible to forget.  While I wouldn't say that I like the song, I respect it more than I used to.