Icarus
The Mission In Motion
Soaring Ambitions and the Perils of Aspiration
The song 'Icarus' by The Mission In Motion delves into the themes of ambition, risk, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Drawing inspiration from the Greek myth of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun with wings made of feathers and wax, the lyrics metaphorically explore the highs and lows of striving for success. The opening lines, 'Well it's a business after all / If you don't float then you must fall,' set the stage for a narrative about the cutthroat nature of ambition and the fine line between success and failure. The protagonist acknowledges the precariousness of their journey, dancing and singing 'politely for my meals' while waiting for their big break, symbolizing the sacrifices and patience required in the pursuit of dreams.
The chorus, 'You're the sun / Melting the wax in my wings / Oh let me fly, let me fly,' directly references the myth of Icarus, with the sun representing the ultimate goal or aspiration that simultaneously empowers and endangers the dreamer. The plea to 'let me fly' underscores a desperate desire to achieve greatness despite the inherent risks. This duality of ambition is further highlighted in the lines, 'Many stories float around / But not of the ones who've drowned,' suggesting that while success stories are celebrated, the failures and struggles of many go unnoticed.
In the final verse, the protagonist's resolve is evident: 'Nothing left to chance / I don't fear anymore / This is it time to fly.' This shift from uncertainty to determination signifies a readiness to embrace the risks fully, embodying the spirit of a 'mover and a shaker.' The song concludes with a powerful image of taking a 'last breath just as I soar,' capturing the essence of giving everything for one's dreams, even if it means facing potential downfall. 'Icarus' serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and caution, and the courage required to chase one's aspirations despite the odds.