Lorde’s “Virgin”: A Musical Reflection on the Threshold of Thirty

For many who grew up alongside Lorde, her music has served as a soundtrack to their coming-of-age journey, beginning with her 2013 debut album. More than a decade later, this Grammy-winning artist continues to resonate deeply with her generation.

Lorde’s fourth studio album, “Virgin,” delves into the unique anxieties and uncertainties that emerge as one approaches their thirties. Instead of providing answers, Lorde presents a series of thought-provoking questions: Who was I before? Can I still become the person I envisioned? And how will I achieve this?

Released four years after “Solar Power,” “Virgin” exhibits a more intense emotional landscape than its predecessor, though it differs significantly from “Melodrama.” While her second album primarily focused on the aftermath of a relationship, “Virgin” centers on Lorde’s relationship with herself. The album explores broader, more existential themes, including 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 important questions.

New York City as a Lyrical Tapestry

While “Solar Power” was shaped by the sun-kissed landscapes of New Zealand, “Virgin” finds its roots in the vibrant, often overwhelming energy of New York City. The city serves as a unifying element for the album, mirroring the intense emotions explored within its songs.

This urban inspiration is unsurprising, given the artist’s long-term residency in the city. Her album release celebrations, including surprise appearances in public spaces, further underscore this connection. However, the album’s depiction of New York goes beyond mere location references; the city’s frenetic atmosphere is woven into the fabric of tracks like “Hammer” and “Shapeshifter,” through powerful production and vocal styles that echo the city’s distinctive soundscape.

Gender Identity and Expression

Lorde’s musical success stems partly from her ability to navigate the complexities and ambiguities of human experience. This is evident in her exploration of gender identity. “Man of the Year” stands out as a raw and vulnerable examination of this gray area. Contrary to some interpretations, the song does not solely focus on past relationships; instead, it explores the potential for self-transformation—a prospect that is both exciting and daunting.

Sexuality as a Source of Self-Reflection

For Lorde, sexual experiences provide opportunities for introspection and emotional exploration. Physical intimacy often leads to moments of profound emotional connection, even amidst internal conflict. “Current Affairs,” for example, captures the unsettling feeling of falling for someone capable of causing hurt. The lyrics are marked by direct and unflinching honesty.

“Clearblue,” continuing this theme, utilizes vivid imagery and frank language to explore the complexities of intimacy and vulnerability.

Raw Honesty and Songwriting Versatility

In “Virgin,” Lorde showcases her songwriting versatility by presenting an unfiltered view of her insecurities and contradictions. “Shapeshifter” unravels the complexities of past relationships and the self-doubt that accompanies fame. “Favourite Daughter” explores the intricate relationship between a daughter and her mother, while “Broken Glass” addresses the challenges of disordered eating. “If She Could See Me Now” celebrates a rediscovery of self-worth after heartbreak.

A New Depth of Angst

Much of Lorde’s discography is characterized by a distinct sense of angst. In “Virgin,” however, this angst takes on a new dimension, moving beyond the disillusionment of youth or relationship turmoil. It speaks to the uncertainties faced by those in their late twenties, or anyone struggling with the complexities of adulthood.

Throughout the album, Lorde references her younger self, reflecting on her journey from teenage superstardom to her current stage of life. The final track, “David,” provides a poignant summary of the anxieties explored throughout “Virgin,” ending with a glimmer of hopeful uncertainty.