Rather Be with You
Descendentes (Disney)
Choosing Friendship Over Fairy Tale Dilemmas
The song "Rather Be with You" from the Disney series Descendants: Wicked World is a playful and whimsical exploration of friendship and loyalty amidst the fantastical dilemmas of fairy tale life. The lyrics present a series of humorous and exaggerated 'would you rather' scenarios, each one more absurd than the last, such as eating a bad apple and sleeping for a week or breaking up with a prince. These scenarios are drawn from classic fairy tales, adding a layer of nostalgia and familiarity for the audience.
At its core, the song emphasizes the value of friendship over the superficial and often ridiculous choices presented in fairy tales. The repeated refrain, "Doesn't matter what we do, 'cause I'd rather be with you," underscores the message that the company of a true friend is more important than any fantastical adventure or dilemma. This sentiment is further reinforced by the playful tone and catchy melody, making the song both fun and meaningful for listeners.
The song also touches on themes of identity and choice, as seen in the recurring question, "Good, bad, dark, light, what you rather be tonight?" This line suggests that in the world of Descendants, characters are constantly navigating between different moral and ethical choices. However, the ultimate message is that these choices are secondary to the bonds of friendship. The song's lighthearted approach to these themes makes it accessible and relatable, especially for younger audiences who are navigating their own social dynamics and friendships.