Maria

I disagree with both sides on the Regina/Latina discussion. I don't think it is either, I think it is "the diva, ave Maria."

First of all, Regina, a proper name. Why would another proper name be brought into the song when one is already there? Unless it were a famous iconic name such as Mona Lisa, venus, aphordite. Saying she is my venus, is a bit different from she is my regina. And let me tell you, caling a woman another's name is not the best policy, unless it is the goddess of love. To me that is as bad as when people call Debbie "Bondie."

Second, latina. Well, this is the feminine latino. This could work but there is no indication that this is specifically about a latina, like the Sanatna's Maria, the Spanish harlem Mona Lisa (see point one). Also, just calling her latina is not a bad thing but it is not the unbridled adoration that everything else is in the song. She is a million candles, makes you go insane, ave maria (a catholic song of adoration which ties into the author's catholic school background) and then added to that is "oh and latina."

So if it was "the diva," it would be:

Maria, you've gotta see her Go insane and out of your mind The Diva, Ave Maria A million and one candle lights

Which makes perfect sense to me.

I have been looking for the definitive lyrical version to answer this question and have not found it. The fact that there are two different versions and both have other errors suggest that these are not from the author and interpretations which are subjective and thus open to scrutiny. Listening to it, I can hear all three suggestions. I also think it may be different for each chorus. As much as I don't think "regina" fits into the song, Deb does seem to be singing that the first time through. The subtle change would also fit in this song as there are little lyrical twists elsewhere.

I once read someone say it is about a drug but I don't think so, insomuch as the infatuation with the unattainable goddess is not a drug. We have all been there or seen the complete loss of sanity over a girl. The POV is the presumed dowdy friend of such a girl, an impartial observer for whom this is old hat. Ironic juxtaposition that Deb Harry was certainly that girl to thousands.