Poor Unfortunate Souls

“Poor Unfortunate Souls” is a song from Disney's Descendants, originally from the classic animated film The Little Mermaid. Sung by the sea witch Ursula, the song is a masterclass in manipulation and deceit. Ursula begins by admitting her past misdeeds, acknowledging that she was once a 'nasty' witch. However, she claims to have reformed, using her magical talents to help those who are 'miserable, lonely, and depressed.' This sets the stage for her to present herself as a benevolent figure, despite her true intentions.

The lyrics reveal Ursula's cunning nature as she preys on the vulnerabilities of her victims. She describes how people come to her, desperate for solutions to their problems, whether it's to become thinner or to win someone's affection. Ursula's assistance comes at a steep price, often leading to dire consequences for those who cannot fulfill their end of the bargain. This is evident when she mentions that some have failed to pay the price, resulting in her having to 'rake 'em 'cross the coals.' Despite these occasional complaints, she insists that she has been a 'saint' to the 'poor unfortunate souls' who seek her help.

The song also touches on societal expectations and gender roles, particularly in the lines about men preferring women who are silent and withdrawn. Ursula uses this to her advantage, convincing her victims that they must conform to these norms to achieve their desires. This manipulation is further emphasized when she demands Ariel's voice as payment, symbolizing the loss of one's identity and agency in the pursuit of superficial goals. Through its catchy melody and darkly humorous lyrics, “Poor Unfortunate Souls” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of desperation and the deceptive allure of quick fixes.