Piggy In The Mirror

The Cure's 'Piggy In The Mirror' is a haunting exploration of self-perception and internal conflict. The song's lyrics are rich with surreal imagery and metaphors that delve into the complexities of identity and the struggle to reconcile one's inner self with external realities. The opening lines, 'Shapes in the drink like Christ / Cracks in the pale blue wall,' set a tone of disorientation and fragmentation, suggesting a fractured sense of self. The juxtaposition of walking 'slowly and quickly' but 'always away' further emphasizes a sense of aimlessness and confusion.

The recurring theme of transformation and entrapment is evident in lines like 'I'm trapped in my face and I'm changing / Too much / I can't climb out the way I fell in.' This suggests a deep-seated discomfort with one's own identity and the changes that come with it. The imagery of 'flowers in your mouth and the same dry song' and 'sixteen white legs and a row of teeth' watching in secrecy adds to the eerie, almost nightmarish quality of the song, highlighting the feeling of being scrutinized and judged.

The chorus, 'Look at the piggy / Piggy in the mirror,' serves as a stark reminder of self-loathing and the harsh judgment one can impose on oneself. The 'piggy' in the mirror symbolizes a distorted self-image, reflecting feelings of inadequacy and self-disgust. The song's closing lines, 'I'm the waiting beast / I'm the twisted nerve / As I dance / Dance back to the body in my bed,' encapsulate the internal struggle and the cyclical nature of these feelings, as the protagonist returns to their physical self, still grappling with their inner demons.

'Piggy In The Mirror' is a powerful commentary on the human condition, exploring themes of identity, self-perception, and the often painful journey of self-acceptance. The Cure's signature blend of dark, introspective lyrics and haunting melodies creates a poignant and thought-provoking piece that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level.