Grandfather please stand on the shoulders of my father while he's deep-sea fishing (feat. RIOPY)
Lana Del Rey
The Ethereal Quest for Authenticity in Lana Del Rey's Song
Lana Del Rey's song "Grandfather please stand on the shoulders of my father while he's deep-sea fishing (feat. RIOPY)" is a poetic exploration of self-identity, authenticity, and the search for divine guidance. The lyrics are rich with metaphor and symbolism, painting a picture of an artist's struggle against external perceptions and the desire to connect with a higher power or ancestral wisdom.
The recurring image of 'three white butterflies' serves as a motif for spiritual presence and reassurance. Del Rey seems to be addressing the misconceptions others have about her, suggesting that people believe her beauty and talent are the result of others' influence or manipulation. She refutes this by asserting that these external forces are 'wrong.' The reference to Frankenstein and 'black dreams' sewn into her songs could symbolize the industry's attempt to piece together her image and music in a way that feels unnatural to her. The song's title itself, invoking the image of her grandfather standing on her father's shoulders, suggests a longing for generational support and the strength derived from her lineage while navigating the 'deep-sea' of life's challenges and the music industry.
The latter part of the song touches on self-acceptance and the complexity of her identity. Del Rey acknowledges her flaws and her cultural identity, while also expressing her good intentions and the depth of her artistry. She seeks validation not from the external world but from a spiritual or divine source, asking for signs like butterflies or an owl to confirm she is heard. The song is a plea for understanding and a declaration of her intrinsic worth, separate from the expectations and constructions of others.