GRETEL

Sodikken's song 'GRETEL' delves into the profound themes of self-acceptance, societal rejection, and the quest for inner peace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who feels like an outcast, grappling with their unique appearance and the harsh judgments of others. The opening lines, 'Ward off great evil / 'Fore I reach the front door,' set the tone for a narrative filled with struggle and a sense of being perpetually under siege by societal norms and expectations.

The song employs a rich tapestry of metaphors and fantastical imagery, such as 'Fairy, goblin, unicorn / Point me the way with your horn,' to illustrate the protagonist's search for guidance and acceptance in a world that views them as a 'freak.' This use of mythical creatures underscores the protagonist's feeling of being otherworldly or out of place in the mundane reality they inhabit. The recurring theme of being seen as a 'monster' due to their appearance, described as 'Naturally occurring monster making condition,' highlights the societal tendency to ostracize those who are different.

Despite the heavy themes, there is a thread of resilience and defiance woven throughout the song. Lines like 'It's me against you and dad / Not afraid to punch him back' reveal a fighting spirit, unwilling to succumb to the cruelty of others. The protagonist's desire for simple pleasures, such as drinking a mango smoothie or watching a movie without judgment, speaks to a universal longing for normalcy and acceptance. The song concludes on a note of bittersweet triumph, with the protagonist finding solace in solitude, 'Rewarded with time alone,' suggesting that self-acceptance may ultimately come from within, rather than from the approval of others.