Supermodel

Jill Sobule's song 'Supermodel' delves into the pressures and aspirations of young individuals, particularly girls, who dream of achieving societal standards of beauty and fame. The protagonist of the song is a young girl who is determined to become a supermodel, believing that this will bring her the admiration and validation she craves. The lyrics reflect her desire to be emulated by others, as she imagines a future where everyone wants to look and dress like her. This aspiration is driven by a belief that youth, beauty, and being 'hip' are the ultimate keys to success and happiness.

The song also touches on the influence of media and celebrity culture, as seen in the reference to Tori Spelling, a popular actress known for her role in the TV show 'Beverly Hills, 90210.' The protagonist envies Spelling's lifestyle, including her car and tan, and wishes to emulate her. This highlights the impact of celebrity culture on young minds, shaping their perceptions of success and beauty. The mention of writing a school report on why she loves her jeans and the pride in her locker door being the 'coolest thing' further emphasize the superficial values that the protagonist holds dear.

A darker undertone is revealed in the lines about not eating, which point to the unhealthy and dangerous lengths to which the protagonist is willing to go to achieve her dream of becoming a supermodel. This reflects the real-world issue of eating disorders and the extreme measures some individuals take to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Sobule's song serves as a critique of these societal pressures, shedding light on the often overlooked consequences of the relentless pursuit of physical perfection.