I Should Tell You

The song 'I Should Tell You' from the musical 'Rent' is a poignant exploration of vulnerability, fear, and the tentative steps toward new beginnings. Sung by the characters Roger and Mimi, the lyrics capture a moment of raw honesty and emotional exposure as they grapple with their pasts and the possibility of a future together. Roger begins by admitting his own flaws and uncertainties, describing himself as a 'disaster' and struggling to find the right words to express his feelings. This sets the tone for a conversation that is both hesitant and hopeful, as both characters reveal their insecurities and desires.

Mimi's response to Roger's confession is equally revealing. She suggests speeding up the process, indicating a desire to move past the awkwardness and get to the heart of their connection. Her admission of blowing out the candle to 'get back in' symbolizes a willingness to reignite a spark, despite the risks involved. Roger's acknowledgment that he had forgotten how to smile until Mimi's 'candle burned [his] skin' highlights the transformative power of their relationship. This metaphor of light and warmth serves as a powerful image of renewal and the potential for healing through love.

As the song progresses, both characters repeatedly express the need to 'tell' each other something important, yet they struggle to articulate it fully. This repetition underscores the difficulty of opening up and the fear of being vulnerable. The lyrics 'Trusting desire - Starting to learn / Walking through fire without a burn' encapsulate the essence of their journey. They are learning to trust their feelings and take risks, even though the path is fraught with uncertainty. The song ends on an ambiguous note, with the repeated phrase 'Here goes,' reflecting both the excitement and trepidation of embarking on a new chapter together. This duality captures the essence of 'Rent' as a whole, a story about love, loss, and the courage to embrace life's uncertainties.