What You Want
Legally Blonde The Musical
Chasing Dreams and Defying Expectations: The Journey of Elle Woods
In the song "What You Want" from Legally Blonde The Musical, Elle Woods embarks on a transformative journey to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner, by proving she can be the serious, lawyerly woman he desires. The song captures Elle's determination and the lengths she is willing to go to achieve her goal. She devises a plan to get into Harvard Law School, believing that once Warner sees her in this new, intellectual light, he will realize she is the one for him. The lyrics highlight her resolve to change her life and the support she receives from her sorority sisters, who cheer her on despite the daunting challenges ahead.
Elle's journey is not just about winning Warner back; it is also about self-discovery and breaking stereotypes. Her father and friends initially doubt her ability to succeed in law school, given her background in fashion merchandising. However, Elle's unwavering belief in the power of love and her determination to prove herself drive her forward. The song emphasizes the theme of love as a motivating force, with Elle repeatedly asserting that she is doing this for love and that love will see her through. This sentiment is echoed by her friends and even the Harvard professors, who eventually recognize her passion and admit her to the prestigious institution.
The song also addresses the societal expectations and prejudices that Elle faces. Her father's dismissive attitude towards law school as a place for "boring, ugly, serious people" and his preference for her to pursue a film career reflect the limited roles often assigned to women based on their appearance and interests. Elle's determination to break free from these constraints and prove that she can excel in a traditionally male-dominated field is a powerful message of empowerment and resilience. The song's energetic and upbeat tone, combined with its catchy chorus, reinforces the idea that with determination and support, one can achieve their dreams and defy expectations.