The song "Michelangelo" by Cassandra Jenkins explores themes of loss, identity, and self-discovery through the metaphor of a three-legged dog. The lyrics suggest that the speaker feels incomplete or different, symbolized by being a three-legged dog. They are "working with what they've got," accepting their circumstances but also longing for what they have lost. This loss could refer to a personal connection, a sense of purpose, or a part of themselves that they feel is missing. The mention of a fly around their head waiting for their eventual demise represents negative thoughts or challenges that constantly surround them. The idea of strange DNA is a metaphorical way to describe feeling different or out of place in the world. It implies that their uniqueness is visible and present in everything they do. The line about being a virus that comes back at the first sign of weakness suggests a pattern of revisiting certain thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that may be harmful or prevent personal growth. The speaker acknowledges that these patterns are treatable but not easily curable, indicating a struggle to overcome these negative tendencies. The desire to be a "blank white screen" means the speaker wants to be open and receptive to the experiences and stories around them. They want to allow different emotions and narratives to come and go, without any of them defining or consuming their identity. This longing could stem from a desire to find their own voice and create their own story rather than being influenced by external expectations. The reference to playing the villain in an age-old tale suggests that the speaker feels trapped in a role that was assigned to them at a young age. This could refer to societal expectations, family dynamics, or personal struggles. They express the desire to break free from this predetermined role and find their true self. Comparing themselves to Michelangelo, the speaker sees themselves as a sculptor trying to shape their own identity. They depict themselves carving themselves out of marble, which symbolizes their quest to discover who they are and find growth even when they feel stuck. The imagery of growing flowers out of arrows signifies finding beauty or growth in the midst of difficult or painful situations. Overall, the song "Michelangelo" by Cassandra Jenkins explores the journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and resilience in the face of loss and hardship. It represents the longing to find one's true identity and create a unique story, while acknowledging the challenges and obstacles that come along the way.
