A Woman’s Face - Reprise (Sonnet 20)

Song Meaning

Rufus Wainwright, a master of musical and lyrical drama, fearlessly embraces the complexities of desire and identity in "A Woman's Face - Reprise (Sonnet 20)." The song, a modern interpretation of Shakespeare's Sonnet 20, delves into the confusing terrain of love for someone who embodies both masculine and feminine traits. The lyrics paint a picture of an androgynous figure, possessing "a woman's face with Nature's own hand painted" yet also exhibiting masculine qualities that captivate both men and women. Wainwright isn't merely singing about physical attraction; he's exploring the allure of a being that transcends conventional gender roles, challenging societal norms around beauty and desire. The emotional core of the song lies in the speaker's grappling with unrequited longing. He acknowledges that this captivating individual was "first created" for women's pleasure, a realization that brings a sense of defeat. "By addition me of thee defeated," Wainwright sings, capturing the pain of knowing that a crucial aspect of the beloved is ultimately inaccessible. This line is particularly poignant, highlighting the inherent frustration in loving someone whose affections are primarily directed elsewhere. The song’s meaning isn't simply about romantic love, but about the torment of loving an unattainable ideal. Ultimately, Wainwright's rendition of Sonnet 20 is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's words and the timelessness of human emotion. The "A Woman's Face - Reprise (Sonnet 20)" lyrics explore themes of longing, gender ambiguity, and the complexities of desire. Through his interpretation, Wainwright invites listeners to confront their own preconceived notions about love, beauty, and the fluidity of identity, leaving us to consider how societal expectations can shape and sometimes complicate our deepest affections.