Tangerine

Miley Cyrus's song 'Tangerine' is a profound exploration of self-discovery, existential reflection, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of a cosmic journey where the sun, depicted as a 'giant spaceship tangerine,' symbolizes hope and enlightenment. The sun's rays are described as 'hopeful golden morphine,' suggesting a duality of comfort and potential addiction to the pursuit of happiness and meaning. This celestial imagery sets the stage for a deeper introspection into the human condition.

The song delves into the internal conflict of wanting to rise and shine like the sun but feeling weighed down by life's challenges. The lines 'How I'm supposed to shine man, through all the smoke and clouds?' and 'I’m on a trip, no luggage, no ticket' reflect a sense of being lost and unprepared for the journey of life. The mention of 'confetti on the floor from last night still laying' and 'the same playlist on my phone still playing' evokes a sense of stagnation and the repetitive nature of daily life. This juxtaposition of cosmic grandeur and mundane reality highlights the struggle between aspiration and the inertia of routine.

Cyrus also touches on themes of societal pressure and the passage of time, with lines like 'Seems like everyone I know is getting married, everyone else getting buried.' This stark observation underscores the inevitability of life's milestones and the varying paths people take. The song's closing lines, 'Love is brighter than the fiery violent truth,' suggest that despite the harsh realities of life, love remains a guiding light and a source of hope. 'Tangerine' ultimately serves as a contemplative anthem for those grappling with their identity and purpose, encouraging listeners to find their own light amidst the darkness.