Superstar
The Veronicas
The Illusion of Stardom: A Deep Dive into 'Superstar' by The Veronicas
The Veronicas' song 'Superstar' delves into the themes of fame, self-deception, and the consequences of living a life built on lies. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has become consumed by their own image, believing in the falsehoods they've created about themselves. The opening lines, 'Picking at your someone / Well that's why / Always believe in / In all the lies,' suggest a person who has manipulated others and themselves into believing a constructed persona. This sets the stage for the song's exploration of the pitfalls of such a lifestyle.
The chorus, 'Oh, and everyone you used to know / Oh, are all the people you let go / Tellin' everyone who you are / Like you're some kind of superstar,' highlights the isolation that comes with this self-deception. The protagonist has alienated those who once knew them, trading genuine relationships for superficial recognition. The repetition of 'like you're some kind of superstar' serves as a biting critique, emphasizing the hollowness of their self-proclaimed status. The Veronicas use this refrain to underscore the emptiness that often accompanies the pursuit of fame at the expense of authenticity.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the protagonist is beginning to face the consequences of their actions. Lines like 'Running out of reasons / Of what's going on / Pretend you're sorry / For the things you've done' suggest a moment of reckoning. The truth, as the lyrics state, 'has a way of getting out,' and the protagonist is left to confront the reality they've been avoiding. The song's conclusion, with its repeated references to looking back and the loss of everything they once had, serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of living a life built on lies and superficiality. The Veronicas effectively use 'Superstar' to explore the dark side of fame and the importance of staying true to oneself.