“Confident” by Justin Bieber is a song that explores themes of attraction, fascination, and addiction.
The narrative revolves around the central protagonist’s intense attraction to a confident and mysterious woman. Her self-assured walk, her allure, and the fascination she inspires serve as recurring motifs. She is depicted as an exotic, enigmatic figure who stands out in a crowd, her mere presence invoking a sense of awe and fascination. The lyrics juxtapose her outward elegance with a captivating inner confidence that leaves the protagonist powerless, yet engrossingly curious.
Emotionally, the song attempt to capture the initial stages of infatuation. The protagonist feels drawn towards the woman, capturing the common human experience of being captivated, even somewhat addicted, to another’s allure. It communicates the feeling of intrigue and desire, which the protagonist cannot quite explain but succumbs to regardless.
The narrative of the song also suggests a struggle for understanding and deeper connection. The protagonist is not merely taken in by her physicality, but he’s intent on understanding her more intimately as his curiosity extends to her background, her nationality, and whether there are others ‘like her’ out there. This signifies a desire to connect on a deeper level beyond physical attraction.
The reference to “sexual romancing” and occasional use of words like “twerk” and “nasty” tie into common themes of contemporary pop and R&B songs, indicating a sexual undertone to their interaction, while also staying within the bounds of the dance and clubbing culture often portrayed in similar music genres.
Overall, “Confident” effectively communicates complex emotions of infatuation, desire, and intrigue that often accompany the early stages of attraction. The ambiguity and mystery surrounding the woman fuel the protagonist’s fascination, keeping him — and by extension, the listener — engaged and captivated.