Introduction
The musical “Phantom of the Opera” is one of the most famous and successful musicals of all time. It was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and the lyrics were written by Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe. The story is about a mysterious figure, known as the Phantom, who falls in love with a young soprano named Christine Daae. One of the most famous songs from the musical is “The Mirror”, which is sung by Christine.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “The Mirror” are haunting and beautiful. They convey the inner turmoil that Christine feels as she struggles to come to terms with her feelings for the Phantom. The song begins with Christine staring into a mirror and seeing the Phantom’s reflection.
“In sleep he sang to me, in dreams he came, that voice which calls to me and speaks my name. And do I dream again? For now I find, the Phantom of the Opera is there, inside my mind.”
These opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song. Christine is haunted by the Phantom’s presence, even when she is not with him. The song goes on to describe her conflicted feelings towards the Phantom.
“Sing once again with me, our strange duet. My power over you grows stronger yet. And though you turn from me, to glance behind, the Phantom of the Opera is there, inside your mind.”
The lyrics suggest that the Phantom has a hold over Christine that she cannot resist. She is drawn to him, even though she knows that he is dangerous and unstable. The song ends with Christine acknowledging the power that the Phantom has over her.
“Those who have seen your face, draw back in fear. I am the mask you wear, it’s me they hear. Your spirit and my voice, in one combined. The Phantom of the Opera is there, inside my mind.”
These final lines are some of the most famous from the entire musical. They suggest that Christine and the Phantom are intertwined, both in their voices and in their spirits.
Conclusion
“The Mirror” is a beautiful and haunting song that captures the essence of the relationship between Christine and the Phantom. The lyrics are powerful and emotional, and they have helped to make “Phantom of the Opera” one of the most beloved musicals of all time.
