Meaning of National Anthem by Lana Del Rey

January 19, 2025

"National Anthem" is a song by Lana Del Rey from her album "Born to Die - The Paradise Edition (Box Set)" released in 2012. The track is a rich tapestry of themes that intertwine love, wealth, and the American dream, encapsulating the essence of modern romance against a backdrop of glamour and excess.

The song explores the complexities of love and materialism, portraying a glamorous yet reckless lifestyle where money plays a central role in attraction and success. It reflects a longing for validation and the duality of desire, blending celebration with melancholy.

The song opens with a nostalgic tone, immediately setting the stage for a romanticized view of love intertwined with the allure of wealth. The narrator's desire to be treated as the 'National Anthem' of her lover suggests a yearning for recognition and importance in a relationship that is heavily influenced by societal expectations and material success. This metaphor elevates her feelings, indicating that she wants to be celebrated and cherished, much like a national symbol.

As the lyrics progress, the imagery of summer and the vibrancy of life in America are juxtaposed with the darker undertones of longing and emptiness. The references to iconic figures like John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe serve to highlight the duality of love in the public eye versus private reality. Kennedy's relationships with both Monroe and Jackie Kennedy symbolize the contrasting aspects of love: the passionate, reckless affair versus the stable, supportive marriage. This duality is mirrored in the narrator's own experiences, suggesting that love can be both exhilarating and suffocating.

The chorus, with its repeated emphasis on money, underscores the idea that financial success is intertwined with romantic validation. The narrator's insistence on being treated as a national treasure reflects a desire for both material and emotional fulfillment. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and desperation, as if the narrator believes that love and wealth are inextricably linked, and without one, the other loses its significance.

Throughout the song, the celebratory tone is tinged with melancholy, capturing the essence of modern relationships that often prioritize materialism over genuine connection. The references to fame and the glamorous lifestyle serve as a backdrop for the narrator's internal struggle, revealing the emptiness that can accompany a life focused on wealth and status. The song ultimately paints a picture of a love story that is both enchanting and tragic, highlighting the complexities of desire in a world where money often dictates worth.

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