El Eterno Femenino
La Mode
The Enigmatic Essence of Femininity in 'El Eterno Femenino'
La Mode's song 'El Eterno Femenino' delves into the mystique and complexity of femininity, weaving together a tapestry of cultural references and metaphors. The lyrics list a variety of seemingly unrelated items—myths, women, greyhounds, cities, muses, painters, cats, novels, queens, bankers, fairies, students, records, stars, robots, and Japanese women—each representing different facets of life and art. This eclectic mix suggests that femininity is an all-encompassing force, present in every aspect of existence and creativity.
The song highlights the 'mysterious something' that has historically both fascinated and intimidated figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Henri-Frédéric Amiel. This 'something' is an elusive quality that only a select few can truly understand. The reference to Andy Warhol, who is described as being 'married to his cassette,' underscores the idea that this enigmatic essence of femininity is intertwined with modern culture and media, influencing and shaping it in profound ways.
The repetition of various objects and concepts—synthesizers, hotels, ants, snakes, Indians, dolls, movies, videos, comics, magazines, train bunks, appliances, and rhythm boxes—further emphasizes the pervasive and multifaceted nature of femininity. These items span a wide range of human experience, from the mundane to the extraordinary, suggesting that the feminine mystique permeates all levels of life. La Mode's use of these diverse elements creates a rich, layered narrative that invites listeners to ponder the deep, often inexplicable influence of femininity on both individual and collective consciousness.