Thriller Assignment

"Grenade" Example Analysis

Within the song "Grenade" by Bruno Mars lies the predominate theme of unrequited love. Though one of the most written about aspects of love in all of literature, it still remains a central conflict of the romantic heart. Mars' tale is no different than the plights of Shakespeare's time. This artist weaves a lyrical piece illustrating the frustrations of unreturned love, a plea to the audience as the suffering protagonist, and saturated with hyperbole.
Mar's theme of unrequited love cries from a heart torn with frustration towards the character the audience comes to grasp as the antagonist. During the progression of the piece, the audience also becomes furious with this woman who refuses to give the protagonist the time of day. The artist's purpose is for the audience the feel his pain to the core as he describes in eloquent hyperbole the extend he would go to prove his love. He describes a series of excruciatingly painful events that he would do for this woman. In doing so, he becomes a voice for those who have sacrificed for love and have nothing become of their endeavors.
Mars cuts to the core with a tone of frustration. The audience, consisting of those who have felt the pain of rejection in love, embrace the passionate, but desperate mood from the singer. The mood is further created by the repetition of desperate attempts to win the girl's affection.
A series of hyperbole create an epic feel to the song. The first image, a grenade, is representative of the act of a hero during war times. This show of heroism represents the sacrifice of one for the sake of others and is seen in society as a noble action. The blade symbolizes the shedding of blood - the lifeline of humanity. He spills his life out so that she may live knowing his dedication. The fire discussed in the bridge has several meanings. First, fire is often used to purify metal. In this image, he is purifying himself for her love. Also, the fire represents his obsession consuming his life. This song, though upbeat in nature, signifies the mournful theme of unrequited love.

"If I Die Young" analysis

Your first assignment...

Re-watch the music video as you begin writing your literary analysis accompanied by your class notes. Keep in mind the three steps to writing a literary analysis: 1) Literary Elements 2) Create a tight thesis 3) Apply your writing knowledge.

Keep in mind the key elements we talked about in class regarding this song: Who is the audience? (Think age, crossroad in life, etc.) What is the singer's purpose? What themes are present? What parts of the song create the setting? What imagery is present? What is the mood? How is that mood created by the singer's tone? What irony is present at the very end? Are there any aspects of figurative language (think personification, metaphor, etc.) ?
Reminder: your blog must be a MINIMUM of 250 words.

Extra Credit: What is the significance of the boat and poems by Tennyson? Find the poem and one of the paintings.
Good luck and have fun!