Hercules, also known as Heracles or Herakles, is a hero of Greek and Roman Mythology. He was a demi-god, born from Zeus and a human mother, Alcmene. Zeus disguised himself as Alcmene’s lover, and slept with her, thus making Hercules. Hercules was born with inhuman strength, thus forming the preface of the song.
While we’re here / Give me something that I’ll never forget / We would fly / Through the years / As if they never would end / Jumping over the fence / Before we knew where to stop. Livingston sings of being in love, and how it can make time pass quickly and make you do rash things. While we’re here / Tell me something that you’ll never regret / Your words went over my head / But they remind me of then / Jumping over the fence / Before we knew where to stop. The song continues about love and sharing secrets.
Now I’m alive, but I’m lonely / I’m not the child that you showed me to be / I’m terrified ’cause you know me / Better than I know myself. Livingston is saying how love has shown him a lot of things about himself, and that he is afraid to lose it. Love often brings out the best parts of us, so much so that you do not feel like yourself without your partner. Ships in the night / When I found you / Now it’s city lights / Where I’m finding myself /Send me a sign, and I’ll come back / Give me a chance to bleed / I can’t be Hercules. Comparison between when they first met and now. Livingston is using Hercules as a symbol of pure strength, saying he is not Hercules is showing how he is simply a human and cannot be strong all the time; he needs time to heal from things. Nowhere to hide / Or to turn to / I’m trying to find / What you see in myself / Send me a sign, and I’ll come back / Give me a chance to bleed / I can’t be Hercules. He has no one to help him with this issue and he is trying to figure out what his love saw in him. He wants her back and is willing to come back if she wants. Now I’m gone / Sold my heart to still not know what I’m worth / New York sees through my facade / She knows that you loved me first / No, I could never pretend / As if I knew where to start. He has trouble understanding his value, and has put on a type of fake personality that can be seen through.
After a repeat of the chorus, we have a bridge off: What is the point of changing / If I only lose the one I love? / I counted my stars to make it / But I couldn’t become more than who I was. In the myths of Hercules, he is struck by a curse of madness and kills his wife; I believe this is what it is referring to. However it is also metaphorical for how he also lost his love. After this the chorus repeats one more time for lasting effect.
You are an expert at sorry And keeping lines blurry, Never impressed by me acing your tests, All the girls that you’ve run dry Have tired, lifeless eyes ‘Cause you burned them out But I took your matches before fire could catch me, So don’t look now, I’m shining like fireworks over your sad, empty town
Lyrical genius Taylor Swift poured these words from the very deepest crevices of her heart, and the world went crazy. Justifiably so, because this is one of the best bridges Blondie has ever released. Various twitter polls have confirmed that it’s a fan favorite, partially due to the whole song being an absolute masterpiece, but also due to the nature of her growing lyricism.
Blondie released “Dear John” as a loud and clear callout to John Mayer, down to the name. At just 19 years old, Taylor found herself between the grips of 32-year-old John. As history has proven, the law is not a gauge for morality. 19 is a pivotal time in any young person’s life, especially a young woman who had spent over 5 years in the spotlight.
The rest of the song goes on to explain in vague detail how he took advantage of her, and how she consistently felt like he was just using her. Looking at their age gap from the outside, it’s not hard to believe her and not uncommon for similar instances to have happened in the industry before. The song also explains how he acted like a completely different person all the time, implying that she had to walk on eggshells all the time for fear of upsetting him.
Against what I would hope to be his better judgement, John joined Tik Tok in March of 2021. Better late than never, right? Well… he was promptly met with a slew of Swifties ready to aim fire at his every move. As a proud Swiftie, I would like to say here and now: I took no part in either side of the altercation.
Until September of this year, my one (1) guilty pleasure was that I listened to and enjoyed “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” because hello?? It’s so good, and for what? Anyways, a good friend of mine recommended some songs to me, and because I’m desperate for new music, I reluctantly obliged. I was… regrettably and pleasantly surprised. To the surprise of absolutely no one, spoiler alert: none of these highlights are “Why You No Love Me.” Just putting that out there right now.
– Rosie – At first, I had no idea what to think. It was either going to be very very good or very very bad, no in between. Until it was. “Rosie” is the in-between song, but its status makes sense for what it is. It’s written from the point of view of a man who ruined his previous relationship with alcoholism. He shows up to her doorstep, drunk, asking for another chance, and she doesn’t give it to him. However, the lyrics also apply to various situations, including the narrator’s knowledge that Rosie has moved on with another man. He’s okay with making bad decisions, even though he knows he’ll regret it in the morning. The versatility of this song is incredible, and I wasn’t expecting it to hit some of the mental spots that it did. It’s not an absolute 10/10, but it’s for sure a song that I naturally gravitate toward – maybe a 7.
– Half of My Heart – Ironically, this song features Taylor Swift herself, and it’s lyrically fantastic. I will say, the foreshadowing to real-life events is a bit eerie, but because Blondie is featured, I guess I’ll let it slide. The story follows a man who has to swallow his pride in order to let go of the woman he loves, because he knows he can’t love her to the depths that she deserves. On par with his versatility pattern, it could very well be an allusion to relationships where one party still has lingering feelings for someone else, and they decide to cut ties with the current partner. Regardless, it’s a uniquely selfless song (considering the artist), and I’d give it a 9/10, including the added point for Blondie.
– Shouldn’t Matter But It Does – This song came as a specific recommendation, and honestly I’m still kind of mad about it, because I did not need to wallow in this for as long as I did. It reminisces the end of a relationship and his hesitation to admit how he feels. Arguably, it’s one of his most complex lyric compositions, balancing ideas of toxic masculinity, blame, regret, and the white-knuckle grip you can have to something of the past. Most importantly, he focuses on his own introspection, asking himself why he’s still struggling and why he feels the way he does. He beats himself up about having normal human emotions, and it speaks volumes about the way men’s mental health is approached in society. Overall, 10/10, no exaggeration.
– Something Like Olivia – Great, so this song is, in fact, the polar opposite of the selflessness observed in “Half of My Heart.” It speaks from the perspective of a man who spends his time searching for someone, particularly a woman similar to the one he speaks about in the song. She very clearly has a boyfriend, and he doesn’t act upon his desire for her, but his allowance for mental roaming is… questionable. However, the longing for someone who is similar to someone else is a quite universal experience, so I can’t really fault him for that. Despite being somewhat unethical and selfish, it’s a fantastic reflection of human flaws and our tendency to want things, but having the moral consciousness not to act on it. I’d give it a solid 7.5/10.
One, two, melatonin is coming for you. Melanie references the popular kids rhyme ‘One, two, buckle my shoe’. Melatonin is also the chemical that induces sleepiness. In the previous song, “Tag You’re It,” Cry Baby is kidnapped by the Big Bad Wolf, in this song she is planning her escape. Three, four, baby, won’t you lock the door? Crybaby is being held captive and she is reflecting on this fact. Five, six, I’m done with this. Seven, eight, it’s getting late, so close your eyes, sleep for days. Cry Baby refuses to be held captive anymore and so she plans to kill the Big Bad Wolf so she can escape.
Art Credit: NastyaMun on Deviantart
Hush, little baby, drink your spoiled milk. This references the popular children’s lullaby ‘Hush, Little Baby’. The wolf wants Cry Baby to make him cookies, the spoiled milk references the fact she plans to poison him.
I’m f***ing crazy, need my prescription filled / Do you like my cookies? They’re made just for you / A little bit of sugar, but lots of poison, too. Crybaby is going crazy from being held captive. Here she explicitly tells us she is going to poison the wolf so that she can escape.
Ashes, ashes, time to go down / Ooh, honey do you want me now? / Can’t take it anymore, need to put you to bed / Sing you a lullaby where you die at the end. This references the children’s rhyme “Ring Around the Rosy,” which has been theorized to be about the bubonic plague; however this has not been confirmed. Cry Baby, like the plague, will take the wolf out. Ironically Cry Baby is referred to as “The Best Girl” in ‘Tag Your It’ when it tells us the wolf is trying to pick out the best child to kidnap. Ironically this girl will end up defeating him in the end.
Nine, ten, never want to see you again / Eleven, twelve, I pull off black so well. Continuing the rhyme scheme of ‘One, Two, Buckle My Shoe’, Cry Baby mentions she is wearing black, hinting at the wolf’s impending doom, and that she is not mourning it, but rather admiring her craftiness. Sh** behind the curtain that I’m sick of sugarcoatin’ / Next time you’re alone, think twice when you grab the phone. Cry Baby is sick of playing along with the wolf and decides to do whatever she has to do to escape. In this case it is decided she must kill her captor to be able to escape; as this seems to be her best option. She is unleashing the dark side of herself, just like her mother and father do. This also may be a reference to her earlier song ‘Dollhouse’ about a dysfunctional family who appears picture perfect from the outside.
At this point the chorus, Ashes, ashes, time to go down / Ooh, honey do you want me now? / Can’t take it anymore, need to put you to bed / Sing you a lullaby where you die at the end, repeats itself twice to hammer in the outcome with repetition. Cry Baby tricks the wolf with poisoned cookies, and now she can finally escape as he is no longer a threat to her.
Hello everyone! I am here to give my Literary analysis of Lorde’s new album, Solar Power. Feel free to listen to the tracks along with me as you read, or just vibe to your own thing while reading 🙂
Starting off, the New Zealand based singer, Lorde, has grown up with generation Z through her music. Ever since her debut album, Pure Heroine, in 2013, she captured the essence of the rambunctious teenage years. Years later, she released her sophomore album, Melodrama. This album reflected more of the mindsets as we encroached adulthood and growing up.
Her most recent album? Your guess is as good as mine. Lorde has always maintained a certain humanity in her music that focuses on universally felt emotions. I think this is why her music has become so popular, and she has stayed that way.
Her tracks always have had a signature Lorde feeling, or recognizable tone, but each album has had its own vibe at the same time. With this new album we’ve had three releases before the album, but they all varied in their own ways. It’s hard to tell what might be in store for this review of Solar Power, but here we go.
For this review I will be putting my raw, in the moment, thoughts as I hear the track for the first time and read the lyrics. Then, I’ll give my overall thoughts. I haven’t looked at any Easter Eggs or anything so if I misunderstand some of the lines, my bad 😉
The Path
Lyrics
Born in the year of OxyContin Raised in the tall grass Teen millionaire having nightmares from the camera flash Now I’m alone on a windswept island Caught in the complex divorce of the seasons Won’t take the call if it’s the label or the radio
Arm in a cast at the museum gala Fork in my purse to take home to my mother Supermodels all dancing ’round a pharaoh’s tomb
Now, if you’re looking for a saviour Well, that’s not me You need someone to take your pain for you? Well, that’s not me
‘Cause we are all broken and sad Where are the dreams that we had? Can’t find the dreams that we had Ah, ah, ah-ah
Let’s hope the sun will show us the path, ah-ah, ah-ah Let’s hope the sun will show us the path, ah-ah, ah-ah I just hope the sun will show us the path
Saviour is not me I just hope the sun will show us the path Saviour is not me I just hope the sun will show us the path, ah-ah, ah-ah Path, ah-ah, ah, path
Raw Thoughts:
Okay, I hear cicadas or snakes? All these lines seem abstract at first, but I feel like they still correlate to each other some way. It makes me wonder if she’s talking about herself and reflecting on her beginning rise to stardom.
Even if it’s another character, I like the message that even this star, is just living life. It reminds the audience through lines like, “Fork in my purse to take home to my mother,” that there is also humanity and relatability in the seemingly famous character. The narrator of the song seems to be categorizing themselves with the listener in a way that signals they both are on the same path toward self-exploration.
Lastly, the song’s suggestion that the sun is the guiding light and solution really drives the theme for the album’s name, Solar Power. I think it was a really smart choice to put this song first and could even suggest that the rest of this album is the path to finding the solutions to the problems presented in the song.
Lorde on writing The Path: “I just felt like the absurd, beautiful nature of being alive was really starting to present itself to me.”
2. Solar Power
Lyrics
I hate the winter, can’t stand the cold I tend to cancel all the plans (so sorry, I can’t make it) But when the heat comes, something takes a hold Can I kick it? Yeah, I can
My cheeks in high color, overripe peaches No shirt, no shoes, only my features My boy behind me, he’s taking pictures Lead the boys and girls onto the beaches Come one, come all, I’ll tell you my secrets I’m kinda like a prettier Jesus
Forget all of the tears that you’ve cried It’s over (over, over, over) It’s a new state of mind Are you coming, my baby?
Acid green, aquamarine The girls are dancing in the sand And I throw my cellular device in the water Can you reach me? No, you can’t (aha)
My cheeks in high color, overripe peaches No shirt, no shoes, only my features My boy behind me, he’s taking pictures (he’s taking pictures) Lead the boys and girls onto the beaches Come one, come all, I’ll tell you my secrets I’m kinda like a prettier Jesus
Turn it on in a new kind of bright It’s solar (solar, solar, solar) Come on and let the bliss begin Blink three times when you feel it kicking in
That solar-olar-olar power Solar-olar-olar power Solar-olar-olar power Solar-olar-olar power Solar-olar-olar power (oh) Solar-olar-olar power
Raw Thoughts: This song, also the title track, really has this disconnecting vibe that I like. If we think of story progression from the past song, it could be signaling the effects of following the guiding sun to look for answers.
The connection to the narrator and the sun is definitely proving to be an obvious staple and connection that the songs are all following.
There was a message on Spotify that said Lorde used organic instruments for the production of the song. I think that it really makes this song feel more genuine, and it makes the scene seem more obtainable of an experience as well. It was just such a smart move in presenting the art.
I love that through the positivity and message, the song itself evokes warmth. The description of this beach scene, and everyone in this “new state of mind” helps get this message across even further.
I wonder if this is the scene after everyone has found their dreams once again. Alternatively, I wonder if it is just the beginning of the journey that is being illustrated…
3. California
Lyrics
Once upon a time in Hollywood when Carole called my name I stood up, the room exploded And I knew that’s it, I’ll never be the same That’s when the door swung open And a voice said, “We’re glad you came”
Now I’ve spent thousands on you darling All the hotels and the jets And I’d pay it all again To have your golden body back in my bed But I don’t miss the poison arrows Aimed directly at my head
Goodbye to all the bottles, all the models Bye to the clouds in the skies that all hold no rain- (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love)
Once upon a time the Canyon Store was where my world began All that mystery and beauty Gleaned from desert flowers and gifted children But it got hard to grow up with your cool hand around my neck
Now in my hotel, we’re sunbathing My girlfriends, and my baby But every time I smell tequila The garden grows up in my mind again
Goodbye to all the bottles, all the models Bye to the kids in the lines for the new Supreme- (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love) (Don’t want that California love)
It’s just a dream It’s just a dream It’s all just a dream I wanna wake up, I wanna wake up
Raw Thoughts:
Wow. This song has a strong message. There are many meanings behind the lines.
Beginning with -well the beginning-the story starts off with the narrator gaining this fame. I believe the Carol could be referencing when Lorde won her first two Grammys. This signals when she realized things would never be the same again in her life.
The “poison arrows” mentioned could be other artists or even the music industries in California that weren’t supportive of her? I think that would make sense with the fact that she is wanting to escape this “California love” that is superficial?
This is definitely written as a farewell to California though. I do appreciate how the negative emotions expressed on this track are through cold sensations. This is shown in the line, “But it got hard to grow up with your cool hand around my neck.” The cold seemed to be holding her back, and she needed to make her way back to the metaphorical warmth.
I really enjoyed being able to share my initial, fresh thoughts on the album. This seems like it’ll be a fun adventure. Lorde always fascinates me.
Thank you so much and if you go follow that guiding sun, make sure you don’t look at it for too long ♥
Coming in as the opening single of Amine’s EP/LP/Mixtape/Album (his words not mine), ONEPOINTFIVE, which was released on August 15, 2018, is a song that would touch base on mental health and wellness within the black community. Amine calls this song a “therapy session” between himself and the listener of the song. He releases his most vulnerable thoughts in the style of song that he dare not discuss with his homies. This song is none other than “Dr. Whoever” which features an opening monologue by Youtuber, model, and influencer, Rickey Thompson.
The opening lines of Rickey’s monologue begins with him saying, “Sad on your [redacted] b-day?…Don’t you realize you popping?”
This opener definitely hit home for me and I bet a lot more people can find it relatable. While birthdays are meant to be a day of celebration for an additional year of life, I, just as many others, often feel a sense of dread that comes along with it. Rickey’s monologue basically tells the reader that they are too fly to be having a birthday pity party. And Rickey is most definitely correct.
Amine released this song just a little over a month before my 15th birthday. With little else to do, I was quick to learn this song and it’s become a tradition that I listen to it the day of my birthday before doing anything else just for the opener.
Although “Dr. Whoever” starts off on a light note, Amine jumps right in with his therapeutic flow of words that will be shared with the listener. The first few lines, “I sit here and tell you my problems…I’m s’posed to be open and honest” is Amine’s way of letting his more vulnerable side be shown to his fans and a way to let down his guard so the therapeutic nature of the song is on full display. Further into his first verse he explores his growing up. He speaks of his firsts, his lasts and even his current situations involving family and love.
“Dr. Whoever’s” chorus follows the first verse further deepening the illusion of this song being a therapy session between he and his fans/ listeners. Amine said in a GENIUS interview, “‘I gotta make sure every intro I do, you and me connect at least.'” Amine delivered on his promise with this song as the introduction song for his album, ONEPOINTFIVE, as “These intros ain’t meant to be bangers; They meant for you and me so we’ll never end up as strangers.” acts as the opening line for his chorus. While these line are pretty straightforward, they further reveal the vulnerability he has as a black man in his music.
Verse 2 of “Dr. Whoever” transitions into a more up tempo beat as does Amine’s subject of rapping. He does this with many other songs of his. It allows the beat to match his words and for the listener to feel more connected to it. Amine speaks on his unexpected success and accomplishments to show just how ‘popping’ he is, which I’m sure made Rickey Thompson proud. This verse serves as reasons not be so sad and down on your birthday and be thankful for growth and success.
The chorus plays again after the second verse as the beat dies back down to a more mellow one as verse 3 plays. Verse 3 is where Amine closes out the song with the original message of the lack of mental health knowledge and access to therapy within the black community. He asks of the rest of the black community to open up and be vulnerable about their emotions, because often in the black community we are told to brush them aside. “To all my [redacted] with some melanin, let your feelings settle in.” Even though he preaches of this action of ‘feeling’ he realizes that he “should take that advice.”
The song closes out with yet another monologue from Rickey Thompson. This outro to “Dr. Whoever” states that the person should gather their thoughts and turn up for their birthday. “Dr. Whoever” serves as a way for Amine to connect more with his fans, but I also found much needed comfort in the relatability of his words. I definitely recommend that you should give this song a listen, especially if you would like more insight into the struggle of mental health within the black community, and if you want to discover a dope new artist. Links will be left down below of the song and his GENIUS video breaking down the song himself.
Until Next Time,
A Girl Who Wants An Amine Hoodie For Her Birthday 🙂
On August 17th, 2021, Tomorrow X Together released their first repackaged album, The Chaos Chapter: Fight or Escape…and it was an experience, let me tell you.
I started listening to TXT this summer around July 10th (according to a message I sent my friend–happy one month, besties <3), and to say I became an instant fan is an understatement. The connection I felt to their songs reignited my love for music in general, and I think that speaks volumes about their influence and skill as artists. If you’ve been in my dorm–which you haven’t because we don’t break Covid protocol in this house–you’ll see that I’m very…open about my support for them: a proud MOA. So, every other month, I’ll be posting a lyrical review of each of their albums, starting with their most recent (as of August 2021) and working my way back to their debut album, The Dream Chapter: Star.
But before I get into the actual analysis, I’ll give a bit of background on the group and a guide to the members/the roles they have in the band, though there are no fixed positions in terms of their talents–they’re all considered visuals, rappers, singers, and dancers.
They were formed under BigHit Entertainment in South Korea, and they debuted on March 4th, 2019. However, they were trainees at the company for many years before this, with the first member, Yeonjun, joining in 2014. Speaking of our 4th Generation It Boy….
Who’s Who?
First up is Choi Yeonjun, the oldest member of the group!
He recently was honored as July “Artist of the Month” by Studio Choom, and a few weeks ago, the showcase he prepared for the studio was released. He also film a video diary of his experience of preparing for AOTM, and the hard work he put in paid off in this powerful performance!
Then, there’s Choi Soobin, the second oldest; as the leader of the group, he is the only one with a set position.
He’s currently an MC of the show Music Bank, where artists come on to be interviewed by Soobin and co-host Arin and to perform their most recent releases!
This is everyone’s favorite middle child, Choi Beomgyu.
There’s a mutual agreement between TXT and MOA that in addition to his many musical skills, Beomgyu is the funniest member in the group…until you admit that you like mint chocolate. That’s when things get real.
The second youngest member is Kang Taehyun.
He has the kind of emotional vocals that make you feel like you’re listening to him go through his third divorce. He has several covers out that are just *chef’s kiss* beautiful. This is his most recent one!
And finally, we have our diamond maknae, Huening Kai.
Hyuka is the s̶e̶l̶f̶-̶p̶r̶o̶c̶l̶a̶i̶m̶e̶d̶ “cutie of the group.” Thank you, Kamal, for giving yourself this title so I could type it out for my teacher to see. His version of “Youngblood” by 5 Seconds of Summer is one of my favorite covers of all time!
With introductions out of the way, let’s get into the part that I actually assigned to do! T_T
Note: I will be using the English translations of the songs when unpacking the writing, to make it easier for my audience to understand the points I make without having to translate the lyrics themselves. This means my quotes may not be perfect translations, but I’m using the most reliable sources I have access to at this time!
If you’re unsure about what a repackaged album is, it is essentially the re-release of a previous album with the inclusion of a few more songs and/or a new concept behind it. The first version of this album The Chaos Chapter: Freeze will be up for review in the next edition of this series. For now, I’m going to analyze the three new additions: “LO$ER=LO♡ER”, “MOA Diary (Dubaddu Wari Wari)”, and “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You) feat. Seori (Emocore Mix)”.
The Chaos Chapter: Fight or Escape
“LO$ER=LO♡ER”
This song is about a narrator who considers himself a loser and his desire to be a sufficient lover to his partner. He feels that he has failed his partner by being a loser in the eyes of the world, and he wishes to let go of the pain that only his love provides sanctuary from. The chorus says, “Lover with a dollar sign / Is a loser.” I interpret this line, and in turn the title, as a commentary on the commendation of love. The narrator fears this relationship he values so deeply will become materialistic, and that instead of staying together because they truly care about each other, the strength of their love will be determined by how much extrinsic value they place on each other.
At the suggestion of Bang PD, Choi Yeonjun wrote the rap verse of this song. In an interview, Yeonjun explained, “I gained inspiration for it through Netflix’s The End of the F****** World…I tried to express “LO$ER=LO♡ER” in a more sorrowful way.” I feel like he captured the essence of TEOTFW perfectly: a love affair between two young people who’ve been hurt through the world’s rejection of their personalities. The lines “Wings spread and broken (Wings) / Flyin’ to eternity / But I can’t help falling / Even with you (Even with you) / Falling is beautiful” draw parallels to the scene where Alyssa and James, the protagonists, reunite after individually coming to the conclusion that they feel more safe and more like themselves when they’re together than they do when they’re apart. It has these conflicting themes of apathy and intense adoration, defeated by the world but victorious in each other.
The concept of choosing to brand yourself a love when the world has declared you a loser is inspired by Steven King’s hit film franchise It; in the first movie, a bully writes “LOSER” on the cast of a character’s broken arm, and his friends help him take back his power by writing a ‘v’ over the ‘s’, branding him a “LOVER.” Overall, it’s an excellent song with tragically beautiful and captivating lyrics. TXT has not a single skip in their discography, but within the first twenty seconds of listening to this song, I knew it would soon become one of my favorites. In addition to the stunning vocals and hypnotic raps, the song also has a great flow to it, which can be attributed to the diligent team of writers who contributed to the creation of this piece. If there’s one song that’ll get you into Tomorrow X Together, I think it’s this one.
The eighth track in this album is dedicated to MOA (Moments of Alwaysness), which is the cherished collective name for their fans. The placement of this song is thought to be intentional, with the ‘8’ doubling as an infinity sign–solidifying TXT’s promise to be with MOA forever. Since late July, the community has been celebrating our August 22nd birthday with the hashtag “LOOKBACK_MOA”, where both fans and the artists have been sharing their favorite memories of their time together. The slogan makes an appearance in the chorus: “Look back / The time of you and I that feels like a dream / Forever MOA / Until we’re shining again…” This and lines such as “Even these ordinary days/ These days when we lost the summer / Record it in our diary tonight / It’ll be our consolation, our summer night…” encourage their fans to remain hopeful throughout the ongoing pandemic, which has separated the members and MOA from interacting in-person for well over a year. “We Lost the Summer” is also the name of a song from their latest EP, min1sode: Blue Hour which further explores the ways in which the global crisis of Covid has affected the way performers interact with their audiences. In a recent interview with Jessi, Soobin specified that the song is written as though MOA is reading the group’s diary, hence the alternate title.
“0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You) feat. Seori (Emocore Mix)”
Ah, the song that is sending TikTok MOAs back into their emo phase–please remove all of the “How to Cut Your Bangs at Home” videos from YouTube before we all start to look like Coconut Head from Ned’s Declassified with a bad dye job. Like the title implies, this is a rock remix reminiscent of the alternative pop music that peaked in popularity between 2015-2017; “0X1=LOVESONG” was originally song originally released on The Chaos Chapter: Freeze back in May of this year. In an article by TeenVogue, Yeonjun comments on how the stylization has brought a new meaning to the remixed version: “…this song captures the passion to fight for the one they love, or to run away with them. So I think the difference between the two songs is, someone who was frozen, and someone who is now actively pursuing and fighting for their love.” This commentary prompts listeners to completely reimagine the song they have been looping for the past two months. Lines such as “In this world of ice / You’re the only shining glow / Now I can’t stop thinking ‘bout you / When I’m sinking alone” no longer express the narrator’s desperation; instead, it is fuel for him to take an active role in his pursuit of forever with his partner. The narrator is more resolute when discussing the stake he has in this relationship with phrases like “Till the end of the world (I love you) / All or nothing, I want all of you / I know I love you (you).” The selection of intense words and phrases reinforces that this is the narrator’s ultimate connection, and therefore leaves a heavier impact on the listener.
These are amazing, impactful additions to the already-impressive setlist of the original album. 100% worth waking up three hours early to catch the premiere of the “LO$ER=LO♡ER” music video–I have no regrets. This is a link to the entire album on Spotify, so you can listen for yourself!
“Last Words of a Shooting Star” is the tenth track on Mitski’s third studio album, Bury Me at Makeout Creek. The song uses the metaphor of a crashing plane to represent the narrator’s battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. The music itself is reminiscent of a plane crash, and it portrays the hopeless feeling and apathy that comes with struggling with mental illness and suicidal tendencies. The title represents how suffering can commonly be missed, and in this case, a plane crash can be mistaken for a shooting star. “Last Words of a Shooting Star” shines through as one of Mitski’s best examples of brilliant songwriting, and is, in my opinion, one of her best works. I chose this song because of its realistic representation of depression and the way it serves to help show those who aren’t inflicted the true nature of the illness.
“All of this turbulence wasn’t forecasted Apologies from the intercom”
The first line reinforces the metaphor of the plane crash. The narrator never wished to be born, and she never predicted the pain she would go through in life. The apologies from the intercom represent how the world and society are at least partially aware of the problems it causes, but when they apologize, it’s empty and said too late— the plane is already crashing.
“And I am relieved that I’d left my room tidy They’ll think of me kindly When they come for my things”
The next line establishes that she is planning to take her own life. She’s relieved that her room is tidy, so once her family and law enforcement come to gather her belongings, they will see her as a clean person and not a slob or bother to others. She hopes to be remembered well because of this. The narrator is so numb, that’s all she can think about— not the impact her death will have on her loved ones, but rather how she’ll be perceived soon after she’s gone.
“They’ll never know how I’d stared at the dark in that room With no thoughts Like a blood-sniffing shark”
The song soon tackles the empty feeling of depression and the reality of living with it. Once she’s gone, people will never know the time she spent withering away in her bed, staring in the dark, and tuning out her mind. The “blood sniffing shark” simile draws a parallel to the myth that sharks will go mad at the smell of blood and how the narrator’s mind is becoming similar: obsessive and desperate for an escape.
“And while my dreams made music in the night Carefully I was going to live”
The song here, instead of having “I was going to live” be an uplifting lyric, portrays through music that it isn’t. The tone goes down, possibly paralleling the song’s “plane crash” metaphor. She’s not excited that she’s decided to live for the time being, but burdened.
“You wouldn’t leave till we loved in the morning You’d learned from movies how love ought to be And you’d say you love me and look in my eyes But I know through mine you were Looking in yours”
The song also tackles the narrator’s unfulfilling relationship and the negative impact it has on her mental health. She feels as if her relationship is rehearsed and disingenuous. She believes that her lover is treating her kindly just so they’ll feel better about themselves and have a place in society. She can’t feel truly happy in a relationship she doesn’t believe to be real. This could either be an actual representation of what her relationship is like, or a warped version her mental illness had told her was true.
“And did you know the liberty bell is a replica Silently housed in its original walls? And while its dreams played music in the night Quietly It was told to believe”
The narrator then goes on to compare her life and herself to the Liberty Bell, which is well known to be a replica of its original. What it stands for is resilience through hardship, but since it’s been replaced, that message could be considered invalid and a lie. It could also be interpreted that the Liberty Bell was broken by its own “music,” and Mitski has talked at length about her struggle with becoming a musician. People encouraged her dream and told her to believe she’d be big one day, but they never fully meant it, and once she was older, warned against following her aspirations.
“I always wanted to die clean and pretty”
This line helps show the apathy the narrator has for her own life and death. She cares more about the state of her body being found than her actual death, and it is a common fear for those with mental illness to look “ugly” when their body is discovered.
“But I’d be too busy on working days”
The next line could hint at how the narrator is overworked to the point where she is driven to end her life or uses this as an excuse to put off her plans.
“So I am relieved that the turbulence wasn’t forecasted I couldn’t have changed anyway”
In a way, the narrator is glad that she wasn’t warned of the pain in life because she believes she would have been miserable and depressed regardless because of her illness. She’d rather it be a surprise when she’s older rather than burdening her child self with that knowledge.
“I am relieved that I’d left my room tidy Goodbye”
This lyric portrays how the narrator ultimately gives into her suicidal thoughts and lets her plane crash. She wishes those she loves goodbye and ends her life. Mitski ends the song on a unsettling note, not only with the ending the lyrics insinuate, but with the droning hum the song fades out with, reminiscent of a plane crash.
This brings about the question of what we should do if we see a friend or loved one listening to songs of this subject matter. Of course, listening to songs like this doesn’t mean someone is planning to hurt themselves, but if it’s a constant pattern, try and talk to them about it. If you believe someone needs help, reach out a hand. You may never know when someone is struggling. If you relate to these lyrics strongly, I’d recommend talking to a friend about your thoughts, or if you believe it’s necessary, get in contact with a professional. If you’re in crisis, please use the information listed below. You are loved, and things really do get better, even in the bleakest of times.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
my original title was going to be “wow i need to read more,” but i think that speaks too much for itself and leave’s no room for writer’s interpretation. while the writing department has blessed my eager heart with great literature from my peers, it has left me with a generous second and a half of free time weekly, which is not nearly enough to read a book that isn’t obligatory.
however, i have gotten into some really good music lately, and i’ve conjured up some recommendations (pulled directly from: my fall 2021 playlist)
better friends – abby cates “better friends that won’t remind me I’m a bit alone, better characters who maybe won’t let me down,” little repetitive, but honestly a vibe. explores the themes of needing to feel understood by those around you. it addresses the inner thoughts of someone who feels like an outcast, even within their friend groups.
army – lauren weintraub “my friends all say i dodged a bullet, but they don’t even know it, no… i dodged the whole damn army,” unreleased as of right now, this is sadly not released, except for a 30ish second excerpt on lauren’s tik tok. it has a vibe that crosses avril lavigne with hayley williams, and i’m not even mad about it – i’m just excited for the release date.
tartarus – ghostemane “let me put kerosene all on my past and let it all go up in flames,” less lyrically inept, but a good song to have in the background for getting ready in the mornings, being in the shower, mindless tasks and the like.
lotta true crime – penelope scott “y’know dennis rayder and david parker ray actually sit together in hell, shaking, quaking, terrified that someday, somehow, someway– they might meet me,” this song has been trending on tik tok for a while, but that absolutely has no effect on its value. she goes into why she listens to true crime (presumably podcasts or youtube videos) and why it’s way deeper than the surface.
two week notice – leanna firestone “if you wanted to freelance, i don’t know why you ever applied to a 9-5,” leanna firestone is also an artist from tik tok, but she has so much talent. this song compares an old relationship to being “his job,” using a two week notice as a parallel to how things changed before the actual breakup. she also uses “better hours or better pay,” as a means to say that someone else will take less of his time or worth more than her, and “better management” as a way to say the new girl might be easier to deal with. overall, great use of metaphors and other figurative language.
hmu if u don’t like me – ashley kutcher “my love language is destructive, i want guys who just want nothing,” inspired by a tweet from blackbear, this song is applicable to so many situations that people find themselves in, particularly the idea of only wanting people who don’t want you back. however, many of the lyrics can apply to being in a situationship that you don’t want to be in, being afraid of relationships, and just generally having really bad taste.
washing machine heart – mitski “i know who you pretend i am,” yet another example of me stealing lauren’s brand, this song is about entering a relationship that you know will destroy you, but doing it anyways. particularly, it’s two views of a relationship where someone is not wholeheartedly invested in the other person – just the feeling of it.
i think that’s everything i have for today, but stay tuned for my really bad music takes sometime soon – hey, maybe i’ll recover from the bullying and uncover some good country ones.
In my final literary review, I want to review a short story I recently had the pleasure of reading. “Sweat” by Zora Neale Hurston has quickly become one of my favorite stories thus far in my repertoire or short stories read. Hurston’s use of original dialect within the dialogue, her vivid descriptions, and her unique telling of the relationship between the main characters, Sykes and Delia, make this story unique and full of a life.
Following the story of two people stuck in toxic matrimony, the interactions of Delia and her husband Sykes are depicted through the use of language and actions. With Sykes being verbally, mentally, and physically abusive towards Delia, he threw his hatred on her and never let up. Delia, stuck in the mindset of constantly loving your partner, she stayed with Sykes despite his cruel words and intentions. This story follows the last leg of their marriage. Sykes, tired of Delia and cheating with her plainly, abuses Delia and tortures her with her greatest fear, snakes. Disrupting her hard work as a washerwoman, Sykes brings a live snake into their house and uses it as leverage over Delia. With hopes that the snake would kill Delia, a turn of fate happened. Sykes ended up on the wrong side of his plan and ended up getting killed by the snake as Delia was peacefully sitting under a chinaberry tree as he died.
With symbolism being heavily instilled in the story, Hurston uses this symbolism to put a deeper meaning behind the entire story. What does it take for a woman who has given her all to stop? What does it take to turn love into hate?
I’ll take a pause here to say that these questions came up once I ended the story and analyzed its meaning. I do think there are more questions that can arise from this tale, but I thought these were most important.
In the midst of my analysis, I realized that the story was about gaining what you deserve. In terms of Delia, she gained her deserved peace. She gained peace from her abusive husband and the cruel words he threw at her. For 10-plus years, he changed her life for the worse and caused permanent damage to her mental state. As for Sykes, he gained his deserved punishment for the things he caused Delia.
You will always get what you deserve.
Through this story, Hurston expressed this message and emphasized on the reward of hard-earned work and sometimes sweat. This is why I like this story.
As the reader, you always root for the ones being put down. You always root for the underdog. Hurston giving Delia the peace she deserved ended the story completely. It gave the story a beginning, middle, and end.
I highly enjoyed the use of old, southern dialect. Hurston gave these characters life, down to the way they talk. The realism of the language and dialogue made the story feel real. It made it feel like it actually happened, which I appreciated very much.
Overall, I am in love with this story. I am in love with the depth of the message it tells. The characters captured me with their personalities and I admire the way Hurston wrote them out.
I often look at writing styles in comparison to my own, but I couldn’t find it in Hurston’s. I found a sense of longing for the authenticity within her writing. I long for the realism within her writing. As much as I have fallen in love with this story, I think I’ve fallen in love with Hurston as well. During her life, she wasn’t celebrated, but I will be sure that she is.
Recently, pop star, Demi Lovato released a new album entitled The Artof Starting Over. The 17th track on the album is her song, “Mad World,” and when I first heard this song, I was immediately intrigued. Now, for the past two weeks, I have listened to this song on repeat, and I have every word memorized, so it’s safe to say that this has become my new favorite song. Honestly, I really enjoyed the entire album (with a few exceptions), but overall, I’d give the album a 7/10.
Now, the other day, while scrambling to get class before 8:01am, like I usually do, an unfamiliar song played on my Spotify. I didn’t know what it was, but I liked it. I didn’t have time to stop and look at the before throwing my phone into my bag, but when I got to class and looked at my phone, I saw that it was “La La Land,” a song from one of Lovato’s earlier albums. Spotify most likely played it based on my recent Lovato obsession, but I noticed that the song had similar vibes to “Mad World,” but I dismissed it because I thought it was just me, especially because the two songs differ vastly when it comes to sound.
However, while researching to write this review, I found an article that said, “Lovato’s ‘Mad World’ lyrics seem like a mature version of those from ‘La La Land,’ which was the 2008 hit from her debut album Don’t Forget.”
It’s not just me! But the story doesn’t stop there…
As I was researching, I discovered that Lovato did not write “Mad World,” and it is actually a well-known song written by British band, Tears for Fears. Does that name sound familiar? It’s probably because you’ve heard or read, literary icon, Callie Matthews’ endless ramblings about her favorite bands, one of them being (you guessed it!) Tears for Fears.
Now, I still agree that the two Lovato songs have similar vibes, but I don’t think that was intentional, seeing as how Lovato didn’t even write “Mad World”.
Now the question is: whose version is better? Tears for Fears? Lovato? Gary Jules?
Personally, I think Lovato’s version is the best. The smoothness of her voice with playing of the piano was so beautiful. I also really enjoyed the key she sang it in, and maybe it’s just that I prefer female voices to male voices. No disrespect to Tears for Fears because honestly, they get all the credit because they wrote the song. They ran, so Lovato could walk, and she definitely walked the walk.
