The World Above

In 'The World Above,' Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid' expresses her profound sense of belonging and newfound identity in the human world. The song captures her exhilaration and wonder as she experiences the surface world for the first time. Ariel's lyrics convey a sense of liberation and self-discovery, as she feels 'completely new' and finally 'in [her] own skin.' This transformation signifies her breaking free from the constraints of her underwater life and embracing her true desires and aspirations.

The imagery of light and space in the song highlights the stark contrast between the underwater world and the surface. Ariel marvels at the brightness of the sun and the vastness of the open sky, which symbolize freedom and endless possibilities. The warmth she feels on her face is likened to love, suggesting that this new environment is not only physically comforting but also emotionally fulfilling. The repetition of 'light' and 'bright' emphasizes the positive and uplifting nature of her experience.

Ariel's journey in 'The World Above' is a metaphor for personal growth and the pursuit of one's dreams. Her sense of life 'almost calling to [her]' from this 'strange new world' reflects the universal human desire to explore, discover, and find one's place in the world. The song encapsulates the excitement and hope that come with stepping into the unknown and embracing change, making it a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and transformation.