Me And The Sky

“Me And The Sky” from the musical *Come From Away* is a powerful narrative that chronicles the life and career of Beverley Bass, the first female captain for American Airlines. The song begins with Beverley’s childhood dream of becoming a pilot, a dream that seemed far-fetched at the time due to societal norms and gender roles. Her parents, though supportive, were cautious, reflecting the era's skepticism about women in aviation. Despite these challenges, Beverley’s determination shines through as she takes her first flying lesson and commits to a life in the sky.

The song vividly describes Beverley’s early career, starting with her unconventional job flying for a mortician. This part of her journey highlights the lengths she went to in order to gain experience and break into the male-dominated field. The lyrics capture her sense of liberation and exhilaration as she takes control of the cockpit, symbolizing her breaking free from societal constraints. The repeated use of the word “suddenly” emphasizes the rapid and transformative changes in her life, from overcoming gender biases to achieving professional milestones.

As Beverley’s career progresses, she faces and overcomes sexism from her male colleagues and even from flight attendants. Her perseverance leads to her historic achievement in 1986 as the first female captain for American Airlines. The song also touches on her personal life, including marriage and motherhood, showing that she balanced her groundbreaking career with her family responsibilities. The narrative takes a poignant turn with the events of September 11, 2001, when the planes she loved were used in terrorist attacks. This tragic moment introduces a profound sense of loss and disillusionment, contrasting sharply with the earlier triumphs in her career.

“Me And The Sky” is not just a story of personal achievement but also a reflection on the broader societal changes regarding gender roles and the impact of global events on individual lives. Beverley Bass’s journey is a testament to resilience, breaking barriers, and the complex interplay between personal dreams and historical events.