☝️ Key Points
- The song is about the insecurities and doubts that arise when you get involved with someone who doesn't have enough strength and courage.
- It becomes clear that Rusty doesn't have the strength and endurance to be successful.
- Pearl and her friends doubt whether it's right to go with Rusty, as they need more than he can offer them.
- The lyrics highlight the desire for a partner who is strong and brave.
- The song reminds us of the importance of finding a partner who complements and supports us rather than holding us back.
Interpretation
The song lyrics "Pearl, that can't be true" from the musical
Starlight Express are about the uncertainty and doubts that Pearl and her friends have when they want to be with Rusty, an insecure and inexperienced train. The lyrics reflect the concerns and fears that arise when getting involved with someone who doesn't seem to have enough strength and courage to succeed.
The line "It takes a lot of strength, does he have strength? Not enough" shows that Rusty doesn't have the strength and endurance needed to compete in the race. Similarly, in the line "It takes a lot of courage, he doesn't have it" it's clear that Rusty doesn't have enough courage to face his fears.
Pearl and her friends are aware of their insecurities and question if it's right to be with Rusty. The line "Pearl, how can you be with him?" shows their confusion and doubts. They recognize that they actually need more than what Rusty can offer them. The repeated line "You need so much more, we need so much more" emphasizes their desire for a partner who is strong and courageous.
The song lyrics address the challenges and doubts that can arise when getting involved with someone who lacks enough strength and courage. It reminds us of the importance of finding a partner who complements us and supports us instead of holding us back.