The Louvre
Lorde
Exploring the Intensity of Young Love in Lorde's 'The Louvre'
Lorde's song 'The Louvre' is a vivid portrayal of the intoxicating and often overwhelming experience of young love. The lyrics convey a sense of obsession and infatuation that is characteristic of early romantic relationships. The opening lines set the stage for a summer romance that is both passionate and consuming, with the metaphor of summer slipping 'us underneath her tongue' suggesting an almost psychedelic intensity to the relationship.
The song delves into the intricacies of this love affair, highlighting the speaker's deep fascination with their partner. Phrases like 'sweetheart psychopathic crush' and 'drink up your movements' illustrate an almost addictive quality to the affection felt, while 'overthink your punctuation use' humorously captures the over-analysis that often accompanies infatuation. The repeated chorus 'Broadcast the boom boom boom boom and make 'em all dance to it' can be interpreted as the heart's loud, uncontrollable emotions that the speaker wishes to project to the world, making everyone feel the power of their love.
The title 'The Louvre' itself is symbolic, referencing the famed Parisian museum that houses some of the world's most celebrated art. By saying 'they'll hang us in the Louvre,' the speaker elevates their love to the status of high art, though acknowledging with a touch of self-deprecation that it might only be worthy of a spot 'down the back.' This line encapsulates the grandeur with which young people can view their relationships, as well as the self-awareness that it may not be as perfect or important as it feels to them.