Kool
BENEE
The Yearning for Coolness in BENEE's 'Kool'
BENEE's song 'Kool' delves into the feelings of admiration and envy that arise when one encounters someone who exudes effortless confidence and charisma. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who commands attention and admiration simply by being themselves. This individual is described as well-spoken, confident, and almost otherworldly, with glowing skin and a carefree attitude. The narrator is captivated by this person's aura and wishes to emulate their coolness and self-assuredness.
The song contrasts the narrator's own insecurities and self-perceived awkwardness with the effortless coolness of the person they admire. Lines like 'I say stupid stuff and embarrass myself' highlight the narrator's feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. The repeated refrain 'Fuck, I wish I could be like you' underscores the intensity of the narrator's desire to be as cool and confident as the person they admire. This longing is further emphasized by the narrator's admission that they stay at home most of the time, in stark contrast to the admired person's ability to 'own the night.'
'Kool' captures a universal experience of feeling overshadowed by someone else's charisma and wishing to possess the same qualities. BENEE's candid and relatable lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt uncool or out of place. The song's catchy melody and repetitive chorus reinforce the theme of yearning for a different, more confident self. Through 'Kool,' BENEE explores the complexities of self-esteem and the often-unattainable ideal of coolness, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone grappling with their own insecurities.