Beauty And The Beast

Nightwish's 'Beauty And The Beast' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of love, inner beauty, and the struggle for acceptance. The lyrics draw heavily from the classic fairy tale 'Beauty and the Beast,' but with a darker, more introspective twist. The song opens with a nostalgic recollection of a shared dance, a moment where the protagonist's perceived ugliness is melted away by the kindness of a kiss. This sets the stage for a narrative that explores the transformative power of love and the pain of unfulfilled desires.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, such as 'Your ocean pulls me under' and 'Your voice tears me asunder,' which convey the overwhelming and consuming nature of love. The protagonist's plea, 'Love me before the last petal falls,' is a direct reference to the enchanted rose in the fairy tale, symbolizing the urgency and desperation for love before time runs out. The song also touches on the idea of inner beauty, with lines like 'Remember beauty is found within,' reminding us that true beauty transcends physical appearance.

However, the song also acknowledges the harsh realities of love and acceptance. The protagonist laments, 'For who could ever learn to love a beast?' highlighting the societal pressures and self-doubt that often accompany feelings of unworthiness. The closing lines, 'Forever shall the wolf in me desire the sheep in you,' encapsulate the eternal struggle between the beastly and gentle aspects of the self, and the longing for a love that can reconcile these dualities. Nightwish's symphonic metal style, characterized by powerful vocals and orchestral arrangements, adds a dramatic and emotional depth to the song, making it a poignant exploration of love's complexities.