Once Upon a Lie

JT Music's song "Once Upon a Lie" delves into the complex journey of a puppet striving for autonomy and self-awareness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who has been crafted and controlled, reflecting on their existence and the artificial nature of their life. The puppet, a metaphor for someone who feels manipulated or constrained by external forces, grapples with the realization that their emotions and actions have been dictated by others. This struggle is encapsulated in lines like "My puppets are but imitations / They're taught to reflect, not to feel," highlighting the tension between appearance and genuine emotion.

The song also explores themes of dishonesty and self-deception. The puppet acknowledges a part of themselves that feels foreign, as seen in the lines "Dishonesty is not in my design / But there's a part of me I hardly recognize." This internal conflict is a powerful metaphor for the human experience of grappling with one's identity and the influence of societal expectations. The puppet's journey is one of self-discovery, as they strive to break free from their strings and reclaim their sense of self, symbolized by the desire to "put the life back in my eyes."

Cultural and mythological references enrich the narrative, with mentions of Gemini and Krat adding layers of meaning. The puppet's quest for autonomy is likened to a hero's journey, where they must confront their creator and the forces that bind them. The song's climax, where the puppet resolves to "pick up the knife and cut the ties," signifies a powerful act of defiance and the reclaiming of agency. This act of rebellion is not just against their creator but also against the societal norms that have shaped their existence. Ultimately, "Once Upon a Lie" is a poignant exploration of the struggle for self-determination and the courage it takes to forge one's path in the face of overwhelming odds.