Meaning of More Is Better by Original Broadway Cast of Mean Girls (Ft. Erika Henningsen & Kyle Selig)

The Elusive Pursuit of Perfection: Unpacking the Meaning of "More Is Better"

As I sat in the theater, listening to the Original Broadway Cast of Mean Girls perform "More Is Better," I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences with the never-ending quest for perfection. The song, featuring Erika Henningsen and Kyle Selig, masterfully weaves together the themes of identity, authenticity, and the allure of popularity. In this article, we’ll delve into the lyrics and explore the significance of "More Is Better" in today’s society.

The Illusion of More

The song begins with Cady, the protagonist, reminiscing about her past experiences as an outsider. She finds solace in observing nature, marveling at the majesty of hyenas and migrations. However, with her newfound popularity, Cady becomes convinced that having more people in her life is a positive thing. She equates "more" with being better, as more people know her name and she’s acquired more material possessions like shoes. This notion of "more" being better is a common misconception, as it often leads to a sense of emptiness and disconnection.

A Contrasting Perspective

Enter Aaron, Cady’s love interest, who presents a contrasting view. He suggests that being alone can sometimes be beneficial, allowing for time to think, which is scarce in their current social environment. Cady counters this by recounting her time in Kenya, where she experienced true solitude and connection with nature. She contrasts the abundance of stars in the African sky with the overwhelming artificial light in her current surroundings. This dichotomy highlights the importance of balance in life, as excessive focus on social validation can lead to a loss of one’s true self.

The Symbolism of Stars

The stars in the song serve as a powerful symbol, representing a sense of wonder, beauty, and individuality. The presence of many stars in the sky emphasizes the vastness of Cady’s experiences and the infinite possibilities that come with being unique. In contrast, the artificial light highlights the loss of her true self amid the social pressures of popularity. The metaphorical stars serve as a reminder of what Cady has sacrificed in her pursuit of acceptance, a cautionary tale about the importance of staying true to oneself.

The Authenticity Conundrum

The conversation between Cady and Aaron also reveals the underlying theme of authenticity. Cady admits to pretending to be bad at math just to get Aaron’s attention, showcasing her desire to conform to societal expectations. However, Aaron expresses his preference for the "real" Cady and criticizes her attempts to mold herself into a clone of Regina, the popular mean girl. This exchange highlights the struggle to maintain authenticity in a world that often values superficiality over sincerity.

The Message of the Song

Ultimately, "More Is Better" suggests that embracing one’s true self and staying true to personal values is more important than gaining popularity or conforming to societal norms. The song conveys the message that "more" is not always better, as it often comes at the expense of personal identity and individuality. It encourages the audience to reflect on the true meaning of "better" and the importance of staying true to oneself.

A Personal Reflection

As I listened to the song, I couldn’t help but think of my own experiences with the pursuit of perfection. I’ve often found myself trying to fit in, to be more popular, to be more liked. But in the process, I’ve lost touch with my true self. The song served as a poignant reminder to stay true to myself, to embrace my individuality, and to prioritize authenticity over superficial validation.

Conclusion

"More Is Better" is a powerful anthem that speaks to the universal human desire for acceptance and popularity. However, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of staying true to oneself. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s essential to remember that true fulfillment comes from embracing our unique qualities and staying authentic. The song is a timely reminder to reflect on our values and priorities, and to strive for a sense of self-worth that is not defined by external validation.

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