Mirror Muscles

Soft Play's song "Mirror Muscles" offers a satirical and humorous look at the modern obsession with physical appearance, particularly among young men. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of gym culture, where the pursuit of the perfect body becomes an almost religious endeavor. The song opens with a description of "schoolboys on steroids," highlighting the extreme measures some take to achieve their ideal physique. The reference to "curls for the girls, and the boys, and everyone in between" suggests that this obsession with appearance transcends traditional gender boundaries, affecting everyone in its path.

The chorus, "I been working on my mirror muscles," underscores the narcissistic nature of this pursuit. The term "mirror muscles" refers to muscles that are developed primarily for their appearance rather than functional strength. The repeated invitation to "come and give them a squeeze" further emphasizes the performative aspect of this culture, where validation from others is a key motivator. The song's playful tone is evident in lines like "Looking like Arnold, looking like Ronnie, looking like Rambo but I'm not Johnny," which name-drop famous bodybuilders and action heroes to underscore the aspirational yet often unattainable nature of these ideals.

The song also delves into the rituals and routines that define gym culture. From the detailed workout schedule—"Monday back and bi’s, Tuesday chest and tri’s"—to the dietary habits—"Eating like Pac-Man munching that food"—the lyrics capture the all-consuming nature of this lifestyle. The mention of "creatine" and "bulking season" adds authenticity, showing an insider's understanding of the gym world. The final verse, with its references to "Beast mode boys" and "Dementors getting that wood chopped," uses vivid imagery to highlight the almost mythical status that gym-goers aspire to achieve. The song ends on a humorous note, with the protagonist asserting his dominance in the gym, making it clear that this is his domain.