Lorde’s “Virgin”: A Musical Exploration of Late Twenties
For many who grew up alongside Lorde, her music has served as the soundtrack to their coming-of-age journey since her 2013 debut. More than a decade later, this Grammy-winning artist remains a powerful voice for her generation.
Lorde’s fourth studio album, “Virgin,” delves into the unique anxieties and uncertainties that often surface as one approaches their thirties. Instead of providing answers, the album presents thought-provoking questions: Who was I before? Can I still become the person I envisioned? And how will I achieve that?
Released four years after “Solar Power,” “Virgin” displays a more intense emotional landscape than its predecessor, yet it differs significantly from “Melodrama.” While her second album primarily focused on post-relationship reflections, “Virgin” centers on Lorde’s relationship with herself. The album explores broader, more existential themes, encompassing reflections on gender, sexuality, womanhood, and fame.
Across eleven tracks, Lorde demonstrates her ability to remain relevant without reinventing herself; she simply continues to ask profound questions.
New York City: The Album’s Urban Heartbeat
While “Solar Power” was born from sun-drenched New Zealand days, “Virgin” finds its roots in the bustling streets of New York City. The city serves as a unifying element for this thematically diverse album, mirroring the overwhelming emotions Lorde sings about.
This urban inspiration is unsurprising, considering the artist’s long-term residency in the city. Her album release celebrations included surprise appearances in public spaces, further highlighting the city’s impact. However, New York’s influence transcends simple location mentions; the city’s chaotic energy resonates throughout tracks like “Hammer” and “Shapeshifter,” whose production and vocals mirror the city’s sonic landscape.
Lorde’s Liberation from Gender Norms
Much of Lorde’s musical success stems from her ability to express the complexities that exist between opposing forces. Her exploration of gender identity is no exception. “Man of the Year” exemplifies this, revealing a vulnerability previously unseen by her fans.
Contrary to some interpretations, this song isn’t about past relationships; instead, it embraces the potential for self-transformation, both exciting and frightening. Lorde’s artistic experimentation with her appearance served as inspiration for this song, highlighting the emotional intensity of this self-discovery.
Sexuality as a Source of Self-Reflection
For Lorde, sex serves as a catalyst for introspection. Physical intimacy leads to moments of emotional connection, even when spiritual dissonance exists within the relationship. “Current Affairs,” a song about a relationship with an uncertain future, evokes the fear of loving someone who might inflict pain.
Lorde’s candid lyrics vividly portray these intimate experiences. “Clearblue,” referencing the pregnancy test brand, continues this honest and imaginative exploration of sexuality, using striking metaphors to depict her emotional and physical experiences.
Unparalleled Honesty in Songwriting
In “Virgin,” Lorde showcases her songwriting versatility, offering unfiltered glimpses into her insecurities and contradictions. “Shapeshifter” unravels past relationships, examining recurring patterns in her romantic life. The song also reflects on the disorienting effects of fame.
“Favourite Daughter” explores the complex bond between mothers and daughters, while “Broken Glass” addresses the consequences of disordered eating. “If She Could See Me Now” celebrates a woman’s rediscovered dignity after heartbreak. The album’s varied themes are underscored by a dynamic production style, blending dissonance and synth arrangements.
A Deeper Exploration of Angst
Lorde’s music is often associated with angst, evident in previous albums. However, “Virgin” presents a different type of angst, less tied to youthful disillusionment or relationship breakdowns. Instead, it resonates with those in their late twenties navigating the complexities of adulthood.
Throughout the album, Lorde subtly acknowledges her younger self, reflecting on her journey from teenage stardom. “David,” the final track, is a poignant summary of the album’s anxieties, concluding with a hopeful, if uncertain, outlook on the future.