Mirror Mirror

Lucky Dube's song 'Mirror Mirror' delves into the themes of trust, betrayal, and the wisdom that comes from experience. The song tells the story of a character named Billy, a man known for his wisdom, who mysteriously disappears, leaving behind a long black coat and notes filled with his thoughts on friendship. These notes reveal a cynical view of human relationships, advising to 'love all your friends but never trust any one of them.' This sentiment sets the tone for the song, prompting the narrator to reflect on their own friendships and the potential for betrayal lurking within them.

The chorus, 'Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the deadliest of them all,' is a poignant metaphor that draws from the classic fairy tale 'Snow White.' In this context, the mirror symbolizes self-reflection and the harsh truths that come with it. The narrator's plea to the mirror, with 'tears in my eyes,' underscores the emotional weight of realizing that those closest to us can also be the most dangerous. This line captures the essence of the song's exploration of trust and the pain that often accompanies betrayal.

Billy's character serves as a cautionary figure, embodying the scars of past hurts and the wisdom gained from them. His advice to 'never believe a word they say' and the visible 'scars of hurt from the past' highlight the lasting impact of betrayal. The song's narrative encourages listeners to scrutinize their own relationships and the trust they place in others. Lucky Dube's poignant lyrics and emotive delivery make 'Mirror Mirror' a powerful reflection on the complexities of human connections and the often-painful lessons learned from them.