Think Of Meryl Streep

The song 'Think Of Meryl Streep' from the Fame Musical delves into the inner turmoil and emotional resilience required in the world of acting. The protagonist begins by expressing a sense of foolishness and intense emotional distress, but quickly pivots to a more constructive approach: channeling these emotions into their craft. This shift underscores a fundamental aspect of acting—using personal experiences and feelings to enhance performance on stage. The mention of iconic actresses like Katherine Hepburn and Meryl Streep serves as a reminder of the high standards and the emotional depth that great acting demands.

The lyrics emphasize the importance of harnessing emotions rather than letting them overwhelm you. The protagonist reflects on the wasted feelings directed at a 'creep' and instead decides to use these emotions as fuel for their art. This idea is encapsulated in the repeated advice to 'Think of Meryl Streep,' a symbol of emotional mastery and professional excellence. The song suggests that an actress's job is to manage her emotions carefully, revealing only what is necessary for the role while keeping the rest hidden, much like Midas hoarding his treasures.

The song also touches on the duality of an actor's life—maintaining a composed exterior while dealing with inner turmoil. The advice to 'smile and shrug your shoulders' and 'make believe it's fine' highlights the performative aspect of everyday life for actors. Even when their heart is breaking, they must never show it, saving those raw emotions for a future performance. This duality is a testament to the emotional strength and discipline required in the acting profession, making 'Think Of Meryl Streep' a poignant exploration of the sacrifices and skills involved in the craft of acting.