Beautiful

Marillion's song "Beautiful" is a poignant commentary on society's superficial values and the pressure to conform to a narrow definition of beauty. The lyrics suggest that the world often assigns negative labels to what is inherently beautiful and fails to appreciate the depth of beauty in people and things. The repetition of the phrase "Everybody knows that we live in a world" emphasizes a collective awareness of this societal flaw, yet there's a resignation to its persistence.

The metaphor of leaves changing color and being trodden down represents the natural cycle of life and the inevitability of change. However, it also symbolizes how beauty is often overlooked and trampled upon, much like the leaves that fall to the ground, unnoticed and unappreciated. The song challenges this notion by asserting that we don't have to accept this fate; we can choose to live in a world that gives beauty a second chance and recognizes the value in all its forms.

The call to action in the lyrics encourages listeners to be strong, faithful, sane, and honest enough to embrace their unique beauty and stand against societal pressures. The song advocates for individuality and the courage to be oneself, despite the risk of ridicule or rejection. It's a powerful message of self-acceptance and the importance of redefining beauty on one's own terms, rather than those dictated by commercialism and superficial standards.