What You Own

The song "What You Own" from the musical *Rent* delves into the existential struggles of its characters, Mark and Roger, as they navigate life in America at the end of the millennium. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of disconnection and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Mark's opening lines, "Don't breathe too deep / Don't think all day," suggest a need to suppress emotions and avoid introspection, highlighting the numbing effect of modern life. The repeated phrase "You're living in America" underscores the cultural context, where materialism and superficial success often overshadow personal fulfillment and emotional well-being.

Mark and Roger's dialogue reveals their internal conflicts and the ways they cope with their pain. Mark, a filmmaker, and Roger, a songwriter, both struggle with their creative identities. Mark's line, "The filmmaker cannot see," and Roger's, "The songwriter cannot hear," metaphorically express their artistic blockages and the sense of being lost in their pursuits. The mention of Mimi and Angel, significant characters in their lives, serves as a reminder of the personal connections that ground them, even as they feel isolated in a society that values possessions over people.

The song's climax brings a moment of clarity and resolution. Mark and Roger acknowledge the fleeting moments of genuine connection they experienced, symbolized by the lines, "For once the shadows / Gave way to light." This realization propels them to reclaim their passions and reject the hollow pursuit of material success. Mark's declaration, "I need to finish my film / I quit!" and Roger's focus on his song and Mimi's eyes signify their commitment to authenticity and emotional truth. The final lines, "You're not alone / I'm not alone," offer a poignant reminder of the shared human experience and the importance of solidarity in overcoming life's challenges.