Alan Menken - Main Title: Prologue, Pt. 2

The song 'Main Title: Prologue, Pt. 2' from 'Beauty and the Beast,' composed by Alan Menken, sets the stage for the timeless tale of transformation, redemption, and the profound message that true beauty lies within. The lyrics narrate the story of a prince who, due to his arrogance and superficiality, is cursed by an enchantress. This curse transforms him into a beast and places a spell on his castle and its inhabitants, serving as a punishment for his inability to see beyond appearances.

The enchantress's warning that 'beauty is found within' is a central theme of the song and the story. The prince's initial rejection of the old woman, based solely on her outward appearance, highlights his shallow nature. However, the enchantress's transformation into a beautiful figure and the subsequent curse she places on him serve as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of judging others superficially. The enchanted rose she leaves behind symbolizes the fleeting nature of time and the urgency of learning to love and be loved genuinely.

As the years pass, the prince, now a beast, falls into despair, believing that no one could ever love him in his monstrous form. This despair reflects a deeper sense of self-loathing and hopelessness, emphasizing the emotional and psychological impact of his transformation. The song poignantly captures the essence of the story's moral lesson: the importance of inner beauty, love, and redemption. It sets the tone for the journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of love that unfolds throughout the narrative.