The Beautiful Ones

Prince's song 'The Beautiful Ones' is a poignant exploration of love, desire, and the emotional turmoil that comes with romantic indecision. The lyrics capture a moment of intense vulnerability, where the singer is pleading with his lover to make a choice between him and another man. The repetition of 'Baby, baby, baby' underscores the urgency and desperation in his voice, as he grapples with the fear of losing someone he deeply cares about.

The song delves into the idea that 'the beautiful ones'—those who are exceptionally attractive or desirable—often bring heartache. Prince paints a vivid picture of the emotional pain that comes with loving someone who is hard to attain. The line 'The beautiful ones, they hurt you every time' suggests a recurring pattern of disappointment and unfulfilled longing. This theme is further emphasized with the imagery of a perfect picture being smashed, symbolizing the destruction of idealized love and the harsh reality that often follows.

In the latter part of the song, Prince's plea becomes more intense and raw. He questions his lover's feelings and expresses his own certainty about wanting her, despite his confusion and uncertainty about the future. The emotional climax is reached when he begs on his knees, a powerful image of surrender and vulnerability. This raw display of emotion highlights the depth of his love and the pain of not knowing if it will be reciprocated. 'The Beautiful Ones' is a masterful blend of passion, heartache, and the complexities of romantic relationships, showcasing Prince's ability to convey deep emotional truths through his music.