Mirror, Mirror (Look Into My Eyes)
Def Leppard
Reflections of Identity and Fate in Def Leppard's 'Mirror, Mirror (Look Into My Eyes)'
Def Leppard's 'Mirror, Mirror (Look Into My Eyes)' delves into the themes of self-reflection, identity, and fate. The song uses the metaphor of a mirror to explore the protagonist's quest for self-understanding and truth. The mirror, described as having an 'eye of glass,' symbolizes an impartial observer that holds the power to reveal one's true self. The protagonist is desperate to understand what the mirror sees, questioning whether the reflection is an accurate representation of their identity.
The lyrics also portray the mirror as a multifaceted entity, calling it a 'fortune wheel,' 'fool,' 'juggler,' 'hangman,' and 'lover.' These descriptions suggest that the mirror holds various roles in the protagonist's life, from determining their fate to challenging their perception of reality. The repeated plea to 'take a look into my eyes' emphasizes the protagonist's yearning for validation and clarity. They seek answers about their true self and whether the image they see is genuine or distorted.
The song's tone shifts as the protagonist becomes increasingly frustrated with the mirror's elusive nature. The line 'Gonna have to smash the glass' signifies a breaking point, where the protagonist decides to shatter the mirror, symbolizing a rejection of the external validation and a move towards self-acceptance. This act of breaking the mirror can be seen as a metaphor for breaking free from self-doubt and societal expectations, ultimately seeking inner peace and self-assurance.