She's So High
Tal Bachman
The Unattainable Ideal: Tal Bachman's 'She's So High'
Tal Bachman's 'She's So High' is a song that captures the feeling of infatuation and the perception of unattainability that often accompanies a crush. The lyrics describe a woman who seems to be the epitome of perfection, not just in physical beauty but in her entire being. She is described in natural terms, 'blood flesh and bone,' which contrasts with the artificiality that can be prevalent in society's beauty standards. The mention of 'no tucks or silicone' suggests an appreciation for her genuine qualities, which makes her even more desirable to the narrator.
The chorus of the song elevates the woman to an almost mythic status, comparing her to historical and mythological figures known for their beauty and power, such as Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, and Aphrodite. This hyperbolic comparison serves to highlight the narrator's feelings of inadequacy and the distance he feels between himself and the object of his affection. The song taps into a universal experience of feeling unworthy or out of one's league when faced with someone who seems so perfect.
The repeated lines 'I know where I belong / And nothin's going to happen' reveal the narrator's resignation to the idea that he could never be with someone like her. Despite the woman's approachability, as indicated by her coming to speak to him, the narrator is paralyzed by his own insecurities. This internal conflict and the theme of unrequited love resonate with listeners who have experienced similar emotions when admiring someone from afar.