Surface Pressure

The song 'Surface Pressure' from Disney's animated film 'Encanto' is a powerful exploration of the burdens of responsibility and the crushing weight of expectations. Sung by the character Luisa Madrigal, the song delves into her internal struggle as the physically strong member of her magical family, who is expected to handle all the heavy lifting, both literally and metaphorically.

Luisa's lyrics reveal the immense pressure she feels to be unbreakable and dependable. The repeated use of 'pressure' throughout the song symbolizes the constant stress and high standards she is held to. The metaphor of the 'drip, drip, drip' suggests a relentless force that is slowly wearing her down. Despite her outward appearance of strength and composure, Luisa admits to feeling 'berserk' under the surface, questioning her worth if she cannot be of service. This vulnerability highlights the human tendency to equate self-worth with productivity and usefulness to others.

The song also touches on the theme of sharing burdens within a family. Luisa feels compelled to protect her older sister by taking on more than she can handle, which raises questions about the fairness of such expectations. The imagery of a 'tightrope walker in a three-ring circus' and the reference to Hercules fighting Cerberus underscore the idea that even the strongest individuals have their limits. Ultimately, 'Surface Pressure' is a call for empathy and understanding that everyone, no matter how strong they appear, can struggle with the demands placed upon them.