I'm Still Here

The song 'I'm Still Here' from the musical 'Follies' is a powerful anthem of resilience and survival. Sung by the character Carlotta, the lyrics recount her tumultuous journey through life, filled with both highs and lows. The song is a testament to her enduring spirit, as she reflects on the various phases and challenges she has faced. From the Great Depression to personal and professional setbacks, Carlotta's narrative is one of perseverance. The repeated refrain 'I'm still here' serves as a declaration of her unyielding presence and strength, despite the adversities she has encountered.

The lyrics are rich with cultural references and historical events, painting a vivid picture of the different eras Carlotta has lived through. Mentions of the WPA (Works Progress Administration), the Great Depression, and figures like Gandhi and J. Edgar Hoover ground her story in a specific historical context. These references not only highlight the passage of time but also underscore the societal changes she has witnessed. Carlotta's experiences are a microcosm of the broader human experience, marked by both personal and collective struggles.

Metaphorically, the song explores themes of identity and transformation. Carlotta's journey from 'plush velvet' to 'pretzels and beer' symbolizes the fluctuating nature of fortune and fame. Her ability to adapt and survive through various roles and phases—'first you're another sloe-eyed vamp, then someone's mother, then you're camp'—reflects the fluidity of identity and the necessity of reinvention. The song's closing lines, 'Lord knows, at least I was there, and I'm here!' encapsulate a sense of triumph and validation, celebrating the mere act of enduring and being present through it all.