Candy Says

The Velvet Underground's song 'Candy Says' delves into the profound and often painful journey of self-identity and acceptance. The lyrics are a poignant exploration of the character Candy's struggles with her body and the societal expectations that come with it. Candy's lament, 'I've come to hate my body and all that it requires in this world,' speaks to a deep-seated discomfort and disconnection with her physical self. This line can be interpreted as a reflection of the broader human experience of grappling with self-image and the pressures to conform to societal norms.

The song also touches on the desire for understanding and connection. Candy expresses a yearning to 'know completely what others so discreetly talk about,' highlighting a sense of isolation and the longing to be part of a world that feels just out of reach. This sentiment is further emphasized by the recurring imagery of watching bluebirds fly over her shoulder, symbolizing a sense of freedom and escape that seems unattainable. The idea of 'walking away from me' suggests a wish to escape her own identity and the burdens it carries.

Additionally, 'Candy Says' addresses the anxiety and indecision that come with life's big choices. Candy's aversion to 'the big decisions that cause endless revisions in my mind' reflects a common human fear of making the wrong choices and the mental turmoil that accompanies it. The quiet places that 'cause the smallest taste of what will be' can be seen as moments of introspection that bring about existential dread. Through its introspective lyrics and melancholic tone, 'Candy Says' captures the essence of human vulnerability and the quest for self-acceptance in a world filled with judgment and uncertainty.