Meaning of Queen by Shawn Mendes

In Shawn Mendes' catchy and introspective song titled 'Queen', the talented singer explores the theme of self-perception and the contrasting ideas of beauty and ugliness. Although the song appears to be centered around a romantic relationship, it delves deeper into the complexities of self-worth and societal expectations. Through clever lyrics and captivating melodies, Mendes expertly encapsulates the struggles we face when trying to fit into societal molds and how it can affect our relationships and perception of ourselves.One standout lyric in the song is "Making beautiful look ugly." At first glance, this line suggests that the protagonist's love interest has the ability to tarnish beauty. However, taking a closer look, it can be interpreted as a metaphor for the protagonist's own insecurities. The lyric highlights the internal battle between feeling attractive and yet still being deemed unworthy. It touches on the societal pressure to conform to certain standards of beauty, which can ultimately lead to a distorted self-image and low self-esteem.Another significant line is "You treat me like I got nothing on you." This lyric not only signifies the power dynamics in a relationship but also explores the idea that some individuals may try to elevate themselves by belittling others. It emphasizes the protagonist's feelings of insignificance and being overshadowed by his love interest. This theme of feeling inadequate and being subjected to dismissive behavior can resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of being made to feel small or unimportant.The lyric "You ain't the ruler of no country, who made you the queen?" adds another layer of meaning to the song. While on the surface, it may seem like a simple questioning of the love interest's authority, it actually dives into the broader topic of societal power structures. In this context, the queen symbolizes a person who has a sense of entitlement and superiority over others. The lyric challenges the idea that someone can assert themselves as the ruler of a metaphorical kingdom without any basis or merit, suggesting that we shouldn't blindly idolize or submit to those who place themselves on a pedestal.The song's overarching theme revolves around self-perception and the detrimental effects that societal expectations can have on our mental well-being. It raises poignant questions about the influence of external judgments, the pressure to fit into predefined roles, and the destructive consequences they can have on both individual relationships and our overall understanding of ourselves.'Queen' encourages listeners to question and challenge societal norms, inviting them to embrace their authentic selves instead of conforming to others' expectations. It illuminates the importance of recognizing one's inherent worth and not allowing others to define our value. Through his insightful lyrics and captivating vocals, Shawn Mendes delivers a powerful message that reminds us to celebrate and embrace our unique identities, resisting the temptation to succumb to the pressures of conformity.