Beautiful
Lana Del Rey
Embracing Authenticity and the Beauty in Sadness
Lana Del Rey's song "Beautiful" is a poignant exploration of the importance of embracing one's true self and the transformative power of emotions. The lyrics convey a message of simplicity and authenticity, urging the listener to accept the full spectrum of human emotion, including sadness, as a natural and valuable part of life. Lana Del Rey is known for her cinematic style and themes of tragic romance, glamour, and melancholia, and this song is no exception as it delves into the complexity of emotions and self-acceptance.
The song begins with a plea for simplicity in relationships and self-expression, rejecting the notion that one should always appear happy or hide their true feelings. Lana Del Rey challenges the societal pressure to conform to a certain emotional state, emphasizing that it's okay to feel sad and that pretending otherwise can be harmful. The reference to Picasso's blue period is particularly evocative, suggesting that without embracing his sadness, the world would have been deprived of some of his most profound art. This metaphor extends to the listener, implying that their own 'blue periods' can lead to growth and beauty.
The chorus of "Beautiful" is a celebration of turning 'blue' or sadness into something beautiful. It's a reminder that emotions, even the painful ones, can lead to creativity and personal development. The repetition of 'beautiful' reinforces the idea that there is beauty in being true to oneself and in the emotional experiences that shape us. Lana Del Rey's message is clear: authenticity and emotional honesty are not only acceptable but can be the source of something truly beautiful.