Hard To Be The Bard

In the song "Hard To Be The Bard" by Christian Borle, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the overwhelming pressures and challenges faced by a celebrated writer, presumably William Shakespeare. The bard's life is depicted as a whirlwind of social obligations, public appearances, and the constant demand for new, brilliant work. The song humorously yet poignantly captures the paradox of fame: while it brings adoration and recognition, it also imposes a relentless burden of expectations and creative output.

The bard's lament about his busy schedule, filled with lunches, meetings, and interviews, highlights the exhausting nature of maintaining a public persona. Despite the glamour associated with being a famous writer, the song reveals the underlying stress and fear of losing one's creative edge. The repeated refrain of "It's hard" emphasizes the mental and emotional toll of striving to meet the high standards set by previous successes. The bard's comparison of his burden to that of Jesus underscores the almost sacrificial nature of his role, bearing the weight of public adoration and expectation.

The song also delves into the creative process itself, portraying it as a mentally taxing and often frustrating endeavor. The bard's struggle to find the right words and adhere to the constraints of iambic pentameter reflects the meticulous and demanding nature of writing. The humorous depiction of the bard's frustration with his own work, coupled with the fear of being outdone by others, adds a layer of relatability to the character. Ultimately, "Hard To Be The Bard" offers a satirical yet empathetic look at the life of a literary genius, highlighting the often unseen difficulties behind the creation of celebrated works.