Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: indie-pop
Song Meaning of “Werewolf” by Fiona Apple
“Werewolf” by Fiona Apple encourages listeners to be comfortable in their own skin and courageous enough to break away from anyone or anything that brings them down. The theme of transformation runs through the song as Apple uses the metaphor of a werewolf to represent the transformation humans endure to reach a higher level of understanding of their identity and relationships. She disparages anyone who tries to put her in a box and encourages the listener to indulge in their darker side — to confront loneliness and tap into their inner strength.
The song begins with Apple singing “I could see the moon might be high, but I just can’t seem to light it.” The moon is a symbol of the unknown and is a reminder that when we don’t know what’s ahead, we can embolden ourselves to create new beginnings. As the song intensifies, Apple continues to sing, “I’m so hard to handle, I’m selfish and I’m sad.” These lines reveal that Apple isn’t afraid to admit her less desirable qualities; she does not fear her darker self, rather chooses to embrace it full force. The chorus of the song presents a moment of clarity and empowerment: “In the middle of the night, I hear my own voice sayin’, ‘Baby, become who you are, become a werewolf.’” Here Apple is suggesting that in moments of darkness and doubt it is wise to tap into our innermost strength and embrace who we truly are.
By the end of the song, we see a shift in the lyrics, as Apple begins to feel liberated from her burdens. She sings, “I know that I can still go, set myself free, I know I’m not done learning to be me.” This represents a newfound confidence and self-affirmation that is hard to come by when you are under the control of someone or something that is preventing you from accessing your real power.
“Werewolf” by Fiona Apple is an empowering anthem that encourages us to be brave in the face of adversity and to discover, and accept, the person we are meant to be.