Actress

Tori Kelly's song 'Actress' delves into the complexities of fame and the emotional toll it takes on those who pursue it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is constantly performing, not just on screen but in her everyday life. She smiles just enough to make others smile back and cries just enough to evoke sympathy, but these actions are calculated and controlled. This suggests a life lived under a mask, where genuine emotions are suppressed in favor of maintaining an image.

The protagonist of the song has grand dreams of being seen on screens by everyone, yet underneath, she craves genuine human connection. This dichotomy highlights the loneliness that often accompanies fame. The fast-paced life she leads leaves no room for her to slow down and address her emotional needs. The chorus reveals her coping mechanism: it's easier to be an actress. By adopting different personas, she can escape her true feelings and the pain that comes with them. The metaphor of champagne touching her lips symbolizes the fleeting, intoxicating escape that acting provides.

The song also touches on the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, especially those in the public eye. The protagonist avoids falling in love because it would mean revealing her true self, something she feels she cannot afford to do. She hides behind 'magic tricks,' a metaphor for the superficial enhancements and behaviors she adopts to fit into the mold of what is expected of her. The repeated refrain of 'it's easier to be an actress' underscores the emotional exhaustion and the facade she maintains to navigate her world. Tori Kelly's soulful delivery adds depth to these themes, making 'Actress' a poignant commentary on the sacrifices made for fame and the yearning for authenticity.