(APATHY) Sorry
The seemingly apologetic title 'Sorry' contrasts entirely with the notion of apathy, and the central backbone of the chapter: "I ain't sorry". Referencing female empowerment, and strength -- this song effectively underlines the ability of women to stand up for themselves and prevail over infidelity, and inequality:
"Middle fingers up, put them hands high/ Wave it in his face, tell him 'boy, bye'".
Furthering the notion of apathy, the introduction of not "thinking 'bout you", and others around her is heightened by a sense of self-discovery; and appreciation for a woman's influence over those around her -- specifically symbolized not only through the direct lyrics in the song referring to leaving Carter, but from a visual of Serena Williams dancing -- symbolizing the concept of not being sorry for what or who one truly is. In addition, the casting of Serena Williams in this particular song emphasizes the idea of strength and influence; as she not only prevailed over racial discrimination and societal barriers, but sexual barriers, too -- becoming the highest paid female athlete internationally, self-proclaimed feminist, and successful businesswoman -- all achieved from the unapologetic embracing (and noncompliance) of who she truly is.
"Middle fingers up, put them hands high/ Wave it in his face, tell him 'boy, bye'".
Furthering the notion of apathy, the introduction of not "thinking 'bout you", and others around her is heightened by a sense of self-discovery; and appreciation for a woman's influence over those around her -- specifically symbolized not only through the direct lyrics in the song referring to leaving Carter, but from a visual of Serena Williams dancing -- symbolizing the concept of not being sorry for what or who one truly is. In addition, the casting of Serena Williams in this particular song emphasizes the idea of strength and influence; as she not only prevailed over racial discrimination and societal barriers, but sexual barriers, too -- becoming the highest paid female athlete internationally, self-proclaimed feminist, and successful businesswoman -- all achieved from the unapologetic embracing (and noncompliance) of who she truly is.
(EMPTINESS) 6 Inch
Progressing from 'Apathy''s understanding of female influence and empowerment, the matriarchal tone of 'Emptiness' furthers the development of an appreciation for one's abilities, specifically using sexuality as a means to embrace femininity, and the importance a woman has over not only those around her, but the control she has over her own body and sensuality. Beyoncé's use of sexuality in this chapter is one of the most central themes that transcends throughout Lemonade, where the restoration of using one's body for power and influence -- once considered taboo -- is depicted as self-empowering, as well as essential to overcoming societal barriers. The concept that a woman is "worth every dollar" -- regardless of how she earned her money, and that by simply embracing one's self, she's "worth every minute" of her own time.
The use of 'Dear Moon', by Warsan Shire effectively underlines the overarching theme of women taking ownership of their own bodies, rather than blaming themselves for what they cannot control, nor change. Through this, Beyoncé depicts the concept that women are the central figures in relationships; that by "fight[ing] for the power", "you (i.e., Carter) always come back to me (i.e., Beyoncé)".
The use of 'Dear Moon', by Warsan Shire effectively underlines the overarching theme of women taking ownership of their own bodies, rather than blaming themselves for what they cannot control, nor change. Through this, Beyoncé depicts the concept that women are the central figures in relationships; that by "fight[ing] for the power", "you (i.e., Carter) always come back to me (i.e., Beyoncé)".
(ACCOUNTABILITY) Daddy Lessons
The cycle of infidelity throughout not only Beyoncé's family, but throughout many families, is directly addressed within the song 'Daddy Lessons' -- specifically detailing her journey of overcoming the hurt and pain associated with the betrayal of an affair by holding her father accountable for his own actions. This chapter acts as one of the most pivotal changes in tone throughout the entire visual album; being the epicentre of change from '6 Inch's' fiery, unforgiving nature to 'Love Drought's' longing to heal and restore their relationship.
Beginning with Warsan Shire's 'How to Wear Your Mother's Lipstick', Beyoncé effectively elaborates on the idea of mimicking her mother, through the comparison of her father to her husband. The notion that both men had the capacity to "bend [her] reflection" and make her "forget [her] own name" furthers the concept of being "a slave to the back of his (both her husband and her father's) head". The narrative of this song drastically changes through her father's accountability towards his actions:
"When trouble comes to town, men like me (admitting his affair) come around".
Following this, a more accepting and optimistic tone is evident within the second half of the song, portraying an idea that her father's affair "made a soldier" of her, "he taught [her] to be strong" -- and despite the fact that "he wasn't always right", the only way forward towards reformation is being held accountable for one's actions.
Beginning with Warsan Shire's 'How to Wear Your Mother's Lipstick', Beyoncé effectively elaborates on the idea of mimicking her mother, through the comparison of her father to her husband. The notion that both men had the capacity to "bend [her] reflection" and make her "forget [her] own name" furthers the concept of being "a slave to the back of his (both her husband and her father's) head". The narrative of this song drastically changes through her father's accountability towards his actions:
"When trouble comes to town, men like me (admitting his affair) come around".
Following this, a more accepting and optimistic tone is evident within the second half of the song, portraying an idea that her father's affair "made a soldier" of her, "he taught [her] to be strong" -- and despite the fact that "he wasn't always right", the only way forward towards reformation is being held accountable for one's actions.
(REFORMATION) Love Drought
After 'Daddy Lessons', this chapter sets the tone towards restoring Beyoncé and Carter's relationship -- from her acceptance of Carter being "the love of [her] life". Focusing primarily on the life-giving and sustaining properties of water, this chapter underlines the importance of unity when trying to replenish a 'love drought'.
The symbolism of the women deliberately walking into the water, hand-in-hand, symbolizes how the beginning phases of forgiveness is only possible through cooperation and togetherness.
The symbolism of the women deliberately walking into the water, hand-in-hand, symbolizes how the beginning phases of forgiveness is only possible through cooperation and togetherness.
(FORGIVENESS) Sandcastles
The last chapter of the mid-section of the visual album, 'Forgiveness', depicts a raw, exposed, and simple ambience that centres exclusively on the decision to forgive. First introduced to the audience with black and white visuals, the direct question of forgiveness is posed as a yes or no answer -- black and white. The decision of Beyoncé to move forward, and restore their relationship is most clearly depicted through the introducing of colour to the scene -- illuminated by the warm, contained glow of the fire -- contrasting with the previous chaos of 'Anger's' uncontrolled, and passionate anguish over the affair.
Carter, for the first time, is shown within the visual album, heightening the notion of Beyoncé's attempt to heal and repair their relationship. Through the understanding and compassion that Carter, himself, had his "heart... broken 'cause [Beyoncé] walked away", healing and reconciliation is made possible. By accepting that "every promise" may sometimes be broken, and the longing to mend and create new promises with one another, true forgiveness for what Carter had done, is viable.
The "curse" (mentioned in 'Daddy Lessons') can, and "will be broken" through forgiveness, and is suggested to vital in repairing their relationship, and moving 'Forward'.
Carter, for the first time, is shown within the visual album, heightening the notion of Beyoncé's attempt to heal and repair their relationship. Through the understanding and compassion that Carter, himself, had his "heart... broken 'cause [Beyoncé] walked away", healing and reconciliation is made possible. By accepting that "every promise" may sometimes be broken, and the longing to mend and create new promises with one another, true forgiveness for what Carter had done, is viable.
The "curse" (mentioned in 'Daddy Lessons') can, and "will be broken" through forgiveness, and is suggested to vital in repairing their relationship, and moving 'Forward'.