Analysis of ‘Brave’ by Sara Bareilles
By Andrea Bergin
In the song, ‘Brave’ by Sara Bareilles, it is being said how many people don’t speak their mind. The song is directed to those people who never speak up for themselves. Bareilles is trying to encourage these people to ‘say what you wanna say’. The issue that is being brought to light is a common issue for so many and Bareilles obviously doesn’t want it to continue. This makes the song title, ‘Brave’, match the purpose of the song. Sara Bareilles wants to ‘see you be brave’ and voice your opinions, not just sit and watch others in silence and she passes on her message in a poetic way.
Bareilles uses few poetic techniques in this song. Although she uses only a couple of the different types of techniques, the few she does use are effective. There is obviously rhythm in this as it is a song but there are also a few metaphors as well. For example, she sings ‘you can turn a phrase into a weapon or a drug’. This metaphor is used successfully as it creates a mental image of being able to use your words to damage or protect yourself and gets the message across to the people who listen to this song.
The message, or theme, that Bareilles is trying to get across is to use your voice and speak up. This song was made to try and encourage everyone to not be afraid to voice their opinions. The theme may also be seen as saying that you should use your words effectively as well. It all depends on how you look at the lyrics and listen to the song to see what it means to you.
The tone of Sara Bareilles’ song can be heard quite well and clear through the way the song is done. The tone of the music and singing together gives a feeling of power. The song is also uplifting, not just empowering. Add encouraging and the song has a great