Penelope Featherington

“Penelope Featherington” by Abigail Barlow & Emily Bear is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and self-worth, set against the backdrop of the Regency era. The song delves into the inner turmoil of Penelope, a character from the popular series “Bridgerton,” who feels perpetually overshadowed and overlooked, especially by the object of her affection, Colin Bridgerton. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Penelope’s insecurities and her struggle with self-acceptance, as she compares herself unfavorably to others and feels undeserving of love.

The recurring theme of being “never as thin, never as perfect” highlights Penelope’s internalized societal pressures and the unrealistic standards of beauty and behavior imposed on women. She sees herself as an “asteroid” rather than a “star,” emphasizing her feelings of insignificance and invisibility. The metaphor of being “forever in yellow” symbolizes her perpetual state of being unnoticed and unappreciated, as yellow is often associated with caution and cowardice, contrasting with the more vibrant and desirable colors worn by others.

Penelope’s lament is not just about her unrequited love for Colin but also about her broader sense of inadequacy and the pain of being perpetually overlooked. The song’s melancholic tone and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don’t measure up or have been relegated to the background. By expressing her feelings of invisibility and resignation, Penelope’s story becomes a universal tale of longing and the quest for self-acceptance, making it deeply relatable and emotionally impactful.