Stained Glass
Madison Beer
The Fragile Strength of Stained Glass: A Journey Through Pain and Resilience
Madison Beer's song "Stained Glass" is a poignant exploration of vulnerability, pain, and the struggle for understanding. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels fragile and exposed, likening their emotional state to stained glass. This metaphor is powerful; stained glass is beautiful yet delicate, and once cracked, it reveals its fragility. Beer uses this imagery to convey how her experiences and emotions are visible to others, but the depth of her pain remains unseen and misunderstood.
The recurring theme of counting minutes and words suggests a sense of urgency and a feeling of being overwhelmed. Beer expresses a desire for gentleness and understanding from others, highlighting the disconnect between how she is perceived and how she truly feels. The line "My skin is made of glass, but apparently it’s stained" encapsulates this sentiment, as it suggests that while her vulnerabilities are visible, they are often judged rather than empathized with. The cracks in the glass symbolize the visible signs of her struggles, yet the true extent of her pain is hidden beneath the surface.
The song also touches on the idea of self-preservation. Beer acknowledges the need to take her own advice and protect herself from further harm. The repeated refrain of potentially breaking if another stone is thrown underscores the precariousness of her emotional state. This plea for gentleness and understanding is a universal call for empathy, reminding listeners of the importance of looking beyond the surface to truly understand someone's pain. "Stained Glass" is a heartfelt reminder of the strength it takes to remain open and vulnerable in a world that often overlooks the deeper layers of our experiences.