Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “The Beauty and the Beast” by Giovanni
The Beauty and the Beast by Giovanni paints a vivid portrait of what it’s like to be in a broken, codependent relationship. The song captures the intense emotions of the participants as they move through a destructive cycle of love and hurt.
The protagonist compares her relationship to a storybook “fairytale of beauty and the beast”, signifying the unequal power balance between her turbulent lover and herself. Despite her troubles, the protagonist remains devoted to her partner, despite “a heart of broken glass”.
The chorus brings out the theme of codependency as the two lovers “need each other” and “bury their secrets in the dark”. It also showcase the protagonist’s yearning to stay with her partner despite his violence, reflecting the deep, instinctive emotional bonds that keep her tied to her abuser.
The end of the song reflects the complexities of their love with,
“But even though I know it won’t last
I still pretend we’re just the same
Til I find the strength to take the fall
And be the beauty and the beast.”
This powerful line showcases the protagonist’s desire to continue the cycle of abuse, despite the knowledge that what they’re doing is destructive.