Miss United States
William Shatner
The Symbolic Majesty of 'Miss United States'
William Shatner's song 'Miss United States' is a celebration of American ideals and the symbolic representation of the nation through the figure of a beauty queen. The lyrics repeatedly emphasize the beauty, grace, and elegance of 'Miss United States,' portraying her as a personification of the country itself. This metaphorical representation aligns her with iconic symbols like Lady Liberty, suggesting that she embodies the virtues and values that the United States holds dear.
The chorus, with its repetitive and uplifting lines, reinforces the idea of pride and dignity. 'Hold your crown up high' serves as a motivational mantra, encouraging not just the beauty queen but all Americans to take pride in their identity and heritage. The imagery of raising the crown to the sky symbolizes reaching for greatness and aspiring to uphold the nation's esteemed qualities.
Shatner's choice of words like 'elegance,' 'taste,' and 'queen of 50 states' further cements the idea that 'Miss United States' is not just a beauty queen but a regal figure who commands respect and admiration. The song's structure, with its spoken word sections and repeated choruses, creates a sense of grandeur and ceremony, much like a pageant itself. This artistic choice highlights the ceremonial and almost sacred nature of the role 'Miss United States' plays in representing the nation's ideals and aspirations.