Naughty

The song "Naughty" from the musical "Matilda" is a spirited anthem of defiance and empowerment. Sung by the young protagonist, Matilda, the lyrics express a strong message about taking control of one's own narrative and not accepting an unfair status quo. The song begins with references to classic tales like Jack and Jill, and Romeo and Juliet, suggesting that characters are often trapped by their stories. Matilda questions why these characters couldn't change their fates, setting the stage for her own decision to take action against the injustices in her life.

The chorus of the song is a call to arms for anyone who has felt small or powerless. Matilda asserts that being little doesn't mean you can't accomplish great things. The lyrics encourage listeners to stand up for themselves and to fight for change, rather than passively accepting their circumstances. This message is particularly poignant coming from a child, emphasizing that age does not limit one's ability to effect change. The song cleverly uses metaphors like a bolt's slip or a floorboard's creak to illustrate how small actions can lead to significant consequences.

Ultimately, "Naughty" is about self-empowerment and the importance of being proactive in shaping one's life. Matilda's resolve to be 'a little bit naughty' is her way of saying that sometimes rules need to be bent or broken in order to correct injustices. The song is a powerful reminder that change begins with individual action, and that one should not wait for others to fix problems. Matilda's character embodies the idea that even the smallest person can make a big difference, and the song serves as an inspiration to all to take control of their own stories.