The song "The End of Wilhelmina" by Colin Hay tells the story of a girl named Wilhelmina who took risks in life and stayed true to herself, even though it eventually led to her downfall. She could have become a ballerina, but her fear of pain prevented her from pursuing that dream. Instead, she chose a life of deceit and trickery, always finding a way to come out on top in any game she played. Despite her dubious ways, the narrator of the song, likely a close friend or lover, admired Wilhelmina for her unique charm, captivating voice, and artistic nature. He never asked her to explain how she was so successful in her manipulations, but he recognized her lucky streak, which she attributed to the number nine. Despite Wilhelmina's promises to him, she ultimately became consumed by her scheming ways and eventually disappeared into smoke and flames, leaving behind only memories and questions. Although she may not have led an honest life, the narrator still remembers her as a work of art and mourns her loss. Overall, the song is a cautionary tale about the dangers of living a life based on lies and deceit and the ultimate consequences that come with it.
