We Both Reached For The Gun

In the song 'We Both Reached For The Gun' from the musical 'Chicago,' Richard Gere, playing the character Billy Flynn, masterfully manipulates the media to craft a narrative that exonerates his client, Roxie Hart. The song is a satirical take on the sensationalism of the press and the malleability of public opinion. Billy, acting as Roxie, answers the reporters' questions with a fabricated story that paints Roxie as an innocent victim rather than a cold-blooded murderer. The repetitive chorus, 'Oh yes, they both reached for the gun,' serves to implant this version of events into the minds of the reporters and, by extension, the public.

The lyrics are rich with irony and dark humor. Billy's responses, delivered as Roxie, are designed to evoke sympathy and paint a picture of a tragic, misunderstood woman. The line 'Understandable, understandable, yes it's perfectly understandable' underscores the absurdity of the situation, as the reporters readily accept the manipulated narrative without question. This reflects the broader themes of the musical, which critiques the corruption and superficiality of the legal and media systems.

The song also highlights the power dynamics at play. Billy Flynn, as a charismatic and cunning lawyer, wields significant influence over the reporters, who are depicted as easily swayed and eager for a sensational story. Roxie, on the other hand, is portrayed as a puppet in Billy's hands, her fate determined by his ability to spin the truth. The repeated phrase 'both reached for the gun' becomes a metaphor for the struggle for control and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests. The song's upbeat, vaudeville style contrasts sharply with its dark subject matter, enhancing its satirical edge and making it a standout number in the musical.