The Art Teacher

Rufus Wainwright's song 'The Art Teacher' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the lasting impact of a youthful crush. The narrator, reflecting on her past, recounts her time as a young girl in school, infatuated with her art teacher. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her admiration and longing, which she never expressed to him. This unspoken love becomes a defining moment in her life, shaping her emotional experiences and relationships thereafter.

The song's narrative is rich with cultural references, particularly to famous artists and their works. The mention of Rubens, Rembrandt, and John Singer Sargent situates the story within the context of art history, while the teacher's preference for Turner adds a personal touch to his character. These references not only highlight the narrator's deep connection to art but also serve as metaphors for her feelings. The art pieces symbolize the beauty and complexity of her emotions, which remain unfulfilled and unshared.

As the song progresses, the narrator reveals that she has moved on with her life, marrying a successful executive and acquiring a Turner painting. However, despite these outward signs of success, she remains emotionally tethered to her past. The 'uniformish, pant-suit sort of thing' she wears symbolizes the conformity and routine of her current life, contrasting sharply with the passion and innocence of her youth. The repeated refrain 'Never have I loved since then' underscores the enduring impact of her unrequited love, suggesting that her feelings for the art teacher have left an indelible mark on her heart.