Never The Muse

Madilyn Mei's song "Never The Muse" delves into the deep-seated desire for recognition and validation from a significant other. The lyrics poignantly express the frustration of always being the creator, the observer, but never the inspiration or the subject of admiration. This theme is encapsulated in the recurring lines, "Always the artist, never the muse," and "Always the poet, never the poetry." The protagonist craves to be seen and cherished in the same way they view their beloved, longing to be the source of someone else's artistic inspiration.

The song is rich with metaphors and classical references, invoking the names of Greek muses like Euterpe, Erato, and Terpsichore, who symbolize music, love poetry, and dance, respectively. These references underscore the protagonist's yearning to be immortalized in art, to be someone unforgettable. The imagery of being compared to a summer's day or the rays of the sun further emphasizes the desire to be seen as something beautiful and essential, something that leaves a lasting impression.

Despite the confident and almost demanding tone of the lyrics, there is an underlying vulnerability. The repeated questioning, "Did you catch my glance or were you looking too?" reveals a deep insecurity and a fear of being unnoticed. The protagonist's plea to be romanticized and fantasized about, to be the subject of someone's dreams and desires, highlights a universal human need for connection and significance. The song captures the bittersweet reality of unrequited admiration and the longing to be more than just a background character in someone else's story.