Butch
Saint Motel
Exploring Identity and Desire in Saint Motel's 'Butch'
Saint Motel's song 'Butch' delves into the complexities of identity, gender expression, and the fluidity of attraction. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone experimenting with their appearance by dressing in their father's clothes, symbolizing a deeper exploration of self and possibly challenging traditional gender norms. This act of slipping into 'Daddy's clothes' and 'denim blues' suggests a desire to step into a different role or identity, even if just temporarily, to understand oneself better.
The song's protagonist grapples with their feelings towards another person, questioning whether they are attracted to a girl or a guy. This confusion highlights the fluid nature of attraction and the difficulty in defining it within rigid categories. The line 'How does it look, through other people's eyes?' reflects societal pressures and the fear of judgment, emphasizing the struggle of reconciling personal desires with societal expectations. The repeated refrain 'I can't see us walking down the aisle' underscores the uncertainty and the challenge of envisioning a future that aligns with both personal identity and societal norms.
The imagery of 'crashing private parts' and 'electric plastic skin' further emphasizes the theme of exploring physical and emotional boundaries. The song suggests a sense of readiness and anticipation, as seen in the lines 'I am waiting, I am ready,' indicating a willingness to embrace one's true self despite the confusion and societal pressures. 'Butch' by Saint Motel is a poignant exploration of identity, attraction, and the courage to defy conventional norms in the pursuit of self-discovery.