“Boys / Boyfriend” by the Glee Cast is a potent musical soliloquy that captures the intricacies of adolescent longing, attraction, and the consuming drive to express oneself. The song unfolds a compelling tale of young love, exploring the unspoken dynamics that surface when one desires someone intensely. It is sung from a male perspective, where both Artie and Blaine, belong to the “pursuer” camp, yearning for the affection of their love interests.
The lyrics consistently embody themes of desire and pursuit. The song begins with an expression of a deep, almost inexplicable desire for another person that has seemingly always been present. This yearning crescendos into an outright declaration of intentions, signifying a transition from a passive state of adoring from afar to a more proactive stance of pursuing the affection of the desired girl.
The recurrent theme of dancing in the lyrics may symbolize the dance of courtship. The characters express a desire to see their potential love interest showing off their dance skills, possibly as a metaphor for revealing their true selves or evoking emotions.
The motif of ‘control’ emerges several times, one which can be interpreted as a social commentary on traditional gender roles. It seeks to portray a progressive image where the girl taking control seems an appealing concept, adding a layer of empowering feminism weaved into the storyline.
Further, the references to gentlemanliness and treating someone ‘right’ resonate with the theme of respect in a romantic relationship. There’s a clear emphasis on the benefits to the girl – of being cherished, held, and ‘kept on the arm,’ signifying a sense of pride the protagonist intends to take in this relationship.
The song references popular cultural icon – Buzz Lightyear, perhaps as an allusion to the lengths the singers are willing to go for their loved ones. It embodies the vibrancy and dynamic range of feelings one experiences in youthful love while also promising a committed, respectful, and gentle romance.
In conclusion, “Boys / Boyfriend” masterfully encapsulates brimming adolescent sentiments – the excitement, fervor, and impatience, combined with an underlying promise of respect, loyalty, and support. The dichotomy of lively pursuit and composed respect sets up an intriguing narrative, giving a comprehensive vignette of youthful romance.