Tigerlily
La Roux
The Enigmatic Allure of La Roux's 'Tigerlily'
La Roux's 'Tigerlily' is a captivating exploration of desire, obsession, and the complexities of human connection. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night-time pursuit, where the protagonist follows someone they are deeply infatuated with. The imagery of 'burning right in front of you' and 'light in the mist' suggests a powerful, almost blinding attraction that is not easily seen or understood in the light of day. This duality between light and dark, visibility and obscurity, sets the stage for a narrative that is as mysterious as it is intense.
The character of Tigerlily is central to the song's narrative. She is both a muse and an enigma, someone who is 'caressing' the protagonist but also remains elusive. The lyrics 'I'll take you up, I'll turn you on, I'll take your apathy' indicate a desire to awaken Tigerlily from a state of indifference, to ignite a passion that is simmering just beneath the surface. The use of names like 'Blossom' and 'Tigerlily' adds a layer of intimacy and personal connection, suggesting that the protagonist knows Tigerlily deeply and wants to bring out her hidden desires.
The song also delves into themes of telepathy and unspoken communication, as seen in the lines 'our communication is telepathy' and 'what you give is what you get out of us naturally.' This suggests a bond that transcends ordinary interaction, a connection that is felt rather than spoken. The repeated references to 'psychobabble' and 'morality' hint at a disdain for societal norms and superficial judgments, emphasizing a more profound, intrinsic understanding between the two characters. The haunting question, 'Have you ever felt like you're being followed?' adds an element of suspense and intrigue, making 'Tigerlily' a multi-layered narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.