If You Could See Her

The song 'If You Could See Her' from the musical 'Cabaret' is a powerful piece that uses satire to address the deep-seated prejudices and societal norms of the time. The Emcee, a central character in the musical, performs this song with a gorilla, which initially seems absurd and humorous. However, the underlying message is far more serious and poignant. The Emcee's relationship with the gorilla is a metaphor for the forbidden and ostracized relationships in society, particularly those involving Jewish people during the rise of Nazism in Germany.

The lyrics cleverly juxtapose the Emcee's affection for the gorilla with society's disdain and judgment. Lines like 'If you could see her through my eyes, you wouldn't wonder at all' and 'Maybe they'd leave us alone' highlight the irrationality of prejudice. The Emcee's plea for understanding and acceptance is a direct critique of the societal norms that dictate who is deemed acceptable or not. The song's final line, 'She wouldn't look Jewish at all,' is a stark reminder of the anti-Semitic attitudes prevalent during the era, making the audience confront their own biases and the absurdity of such discrimination.

'Cabaret,' as a musical, is known for its dark and satirical take on serious issues, and 'If You Could See Her' is a prime example of this approach. The Emcee's performance, while seemingly light-hearted, is a biting commentary on the dangers of intolerance and the importance of empathy. By using humor and absurdity, the song forces the audience to reflect on their own prejudices and the impact of societal norms on individual lives. The song's message remains relevant today, reminding us of the need for compassion and understanding in a world that often judges based on superficial differences.