“Satisfied” stands out as one of the most compelling and emotionally resonant songs from the groundbreaking musical Hamilton. Sung by the eldest Schuyler sister, Angelica, this power ballad delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and societal expectations with poignant lyrics and a captivating melody. This exploration will unpack the depth and brilliance of the “Song Lyrics Satisfied”, revealing why it resonates so deeply with audiences.
The Context of “Satisfied” Within Hamilton
In Hamilton, “Satisfied” occurs after Angelica is introduced to Alexander Hamilton at a ball. The preceding song, “Helpless,” showcases Eliza Schuyler’s immediate and joyful infatuation with Alexander. “Satisfied” then provides Angelica’s perspective on the same events, revealing her own instant connection with Hamilton, a connection she ultimately suppresses for the sake of her sister’s happiness. This dramatic irony and internal conflict are central to the emotional impact of the song lyrics satisfied.
Song Lyrics of “Satisfied”: A Deep Dive
The lyrics of “Satisfied” are a masterclass in storytelling, revealing Angelica’s inner turmoil through vivid imagery and raw honesty. The song opens with a seemingly celebratory toast at Eliza and Alexander’s wedding, but quickly unravels into Angelica’s heartfelt confession.
Angelica: a toast to the groom
Company: to the groom to the groom to the groom
Angelica: to the bride
Company: to the bride to the bride to the bride
This initial, seemingly joyous, repetition emphasizes the societal expectation of celebration, a stark contrast to Angelica’s true feelings. The shift occurs dramatically as Angelica declares:
Angelica: May you always
Company: Always-
Angelica: Be satisfied
This line, the core of “song lyrics satisfied,” is immediately followed by a “rewind,” musically and lyrically taking us back to the night Angelica met Alexander. This rewind is crucial, signifying Angelica’s revisiting of the past and the pivotal moment she made her choice.
Angelica: I remember that night, I just might
regret that night for the rest of my days
I remember those soldier boys trippin’ over themselves to win our praise
I remember that night, that candle light, like a dream you can’t quite place
But Alexander, I’ll never forget the first time I saw your face
These lyrics paint a picture of a memorable and almost magical encounter. The imagery of “candle light” and “dream you can’t quite place” evokes a romantic and ephemeral atmosphere, highlighting the powerful first impression Alexander made on Angelica.
Alexander: You strike me as a woman who has never been satisfied
Angelica: I’m sure I don’t know what you mean you forget yourself
Alexander: You’re like me I’m never satisfied
Angelica: Is that right?
Alexander: I’ve never been satisfied
Angelica: My name is Angelica Schuyler
Alexander: Alexander Hamilton
This dialogue is the crux of their connection. Alexander’s observation, “You strike me as a woman who has never been satisfied,” is perceptive and instantly resonates with Angelica. This shared feeling of dissatisfaction, of always striving for more, forms a powerful intellectual and emotional bond between them. The simple exchange of names that follows is charged with unspoken understanding and mutual attraction.
Angelica: So so so – so this is what it feels like to match wits with someone at your level
what the hell is the catch it’s the feeling of freedom of seeing the light
It’s Ben Franklin with a key and a kite, you see it right?
Angelica’s internal monologue reveals her exhilaration at finding someone who intellectually matches her. The metaphor of “Ben Franklin with a key and a kite” symbolizes enlightenment and discovery, emphasizing the intellectual spark she feels with Alexander.
However, this exhilarating feeling is immediately tempered by the realization of her sister Eliza’s feelings and societal constraints:
I wanna take him far away from this place and then I turn and see my sister’s face and she is
Eliza: Helpless-
Angelica: And I know she is-
Eliza: Helpless-
Angelica: And her eyes are just-
Eliza: Helpless-
Angelica: And I realise
Company: three fundamental truths at the exact same time
The repetition of “Helpless” underscores Eliza’s vulnerability and deep infatuation, contrasting sharply with Angelica’s complex emotions. This leads to the “three fundamental truths,” the core reasons behind Angelica’s sacrifice: societal expectations, Alexander’s ambition, and her deep love for Eliza.
Angelica (Sung): I’m a girl in a world in which my only job is to marry rich
My father has no sons so I’m the one who has to social climb for one
’cause I’m the oldest and the wittiest and the gossip in New York City is insidious
and Alexander is peniless (Ha) that doesn’t mean I want him any less
These lines highlight the societal pressures Angelica faces as the eldest daughter in her family. The expectation to “marry rich” and secure the family’s social standing clashes with her personal desires. Despite acknowledging Alexander’s lack of fortune, she admits it doesn’t diminish her feelings for him.
Angelica (Sung): He’s after me ’cause I’m a Schuyler Sister that elevates his status
I’d have to be naieve to put that aside maybe that is why I introduce him to Eliza
now that’s his bride nice going Angelica he was right you will never be satisfied
Angelica is acutely aware of the social dynamics at play and Alexander’s ambition. She believes he might be attracted to her partly due to her family’s status. This cynical yet realistic perspective further fuels her decision to step aside. The line “nice going Angelica he was right you will never be satisfied” is a poignant self-reproach, acknowledging the personal cost of her sacrifice.
Angelica (Sung): I know my sister like I know my own mind you will never find anyone as trusting or as kind
If I tell her that I love him she’ll be silently resigned he’d be mine she’d say I’m fine she’d be lyin’
Angelica’s love for Eliza is the ultimate driving force behind her decision. She understands Eliza’s kind and trusting nature and knows that confessing her feelings would cause Eliza immense pain. The line “he’d be mine, she’d say I’m fine, she’d be lyin'” encapsulates the tragic sacrifice Angelica makes for her sister’s happiness.
The song returns to the wedding toast, but now with a deeper, melancholic resonance:
Angelica: May you always
Company: Always-
Angelica: Be satisfied
Company: be satisfied
Angelica: And I know she’ll be happy as his wife
And I know he will never be satisfied
I will never be satisfied
The repetition of “be satisfied” at the end underscores the central theme of the song. While Angelica hopes for Eliza’s happiness, she acknowledges that neither Alexander nor herself will ever truly achieve satisfaction. This ending is bittersweet and powerful, leaving the audience to contemplate the complexities of love, sacrifice, and societal expectations.
Themes and Resonance of “Song Lyrics Satisfied”
The “song lyrics satisfied” explore several universal themes that contribute to its enduring appeal:
- Sacrifice and Unrequited Love: Angelica’s selfless act of sacrificing her own happiness for her sister’s is a deeply moving portrayal of unrequited love.
- Societal Expectations vs. Personal Desire: The song highlights the conflict between societal pressures on women in the 18th century and Angelica’s personal desires and intellectual aspirations.
- The Elusive Nature of Satisfaction: The recurring motif of “satisfied” questions whether true satisfaction is ever attainable, particularly when personal desires are suppressed for the sake of others or societal norms.
- Female Agency and Complexity: Angelica Schuyler is portrayed as a complex and intelligent woman making difficult choices within a patriarchal society. Her agency, even within constraints, is a powerful aspect of the song.
“Satisfied” is not just a song about unrequited love; it’s a nuanced exploration of female agency, societal pressures, and the complexities of human desire. The brilliance of the “song lyrics satisfied” lies in their ability to convey these profound themes with emotional depth and lyrical mastery, ensuring its place as a standout moment in Hamilton and in contemporary musical theatre.
