She's An Actress
Wallows
The Quest for Connection in 'She's An Actress' by Wallows
Wallows' song "She's An Actress" delves into the complexities of human connection and the search for meaningful relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is grappling with feelings of isolation and the desire for genuine communication. The opening lines, "Who's been out here? Hold your hand up / I could call it even if you never stand up," suggest a sense of disconnection and the struggle to find common ground with others. The protagonist is in search of new sensations but finds themselves yearning for simple, honest communication, as highlighted by the line, "Now I'm just looking for some communication."
The chorus introduces the titular character, who is described as a model, actress, and dancer. This multifaceted persona could symbolize the various roles people play in their lives and relationships. The protagonist's interactions with her seem to be a way to fill the void of emptiness they feel, even if it's just a temporary escape. The lyrics, "It might be a road to nowhere, but it's alright / It might help me not feel empty," reflect this sentiment. The song also touches on the anxiety and nervousness that come with trying to connect with someone, as seen in the lines, "Can you tell I'm nervous just by my complexion?"
As the song progresses, the protagonist's internal struggle becomes more evident. They express a need for solitude and self-reflection, yet also a fear of being forgotten. The lines, "I don't want to be forgotten, but I've been avoiding being found / Maybe what I owe myself is an open heart," capture this dichotomy. The song concludes with a sense of hope and willingness to open up, as the protagonist decides to let someone in and embrace the possibility of a meaningful connection. The final lines, "And if you want it, lovely girl, then you got it, ah / Make you scream about it like you should," suggest a newfound confidence and readiness to engage fully in a relationship.