Name: Trecia Mae M.

Boligao
Section & Year: BALCS – MANAWARI-3
Course Title: Elective 2 Metaphors in Mass Media
Professor’s Name: Europa, Sheila Grace B.

COURSEWORK 1: METAPHORS IN SONGS

Bruno Mars, known for his charismatic persona and versatile musical style, often explores love, passion,

and sensuality themes in his music. In "Versace on the Floor," Mars delves into the realm of romantic intimacy,

crafting a seductive and emotionally resonant combined metaphoric lyric. The use of metaphors in the lyrics

serves multiple purposes. Firstly, they add layers of depth and complexity to the storytelling, allowing him to

convey the intensity and allure of the romantic encounter in a more vivid and evocative manner. By employing

metaphors like stars watching from above and Versace clothing on the floor, Mars creates a rich meaning of

imagery that engages the listener's imagination and draws them into the world of the song.

Furthermore, metaphors enable Mars to navigate the delicate balance between explicitness and subtlety

in discussing themes of desire and intimacy. By cloaking the lyrics metaphorically, Bruno Mars can evoke

sensuality and passion without resorting to explicit descriptions, thus allowing for a broader appeal and

interpretation of the song. This approach allows the listener to interpret the lyrics based on their experiences

and emotions, fostering a deeper connection to the music. Ultimately, metaphors in "Versace on the Floor" serve

artistic and aesthetic purposes and enhance the song's accessibility and universality, ensuring its resonance with

a diverse audience.

Bruno Mars' song "Versace on the Floor" has multiple metaphors in the lyrics that illustrate the intense

passion and desire between two people. These are presented with Textual evidence;

"Above us all the stars are watchin'” (Mars, 2017).

The line in the lyrics from "Versace on the Floor" conveys a profound sense of cosmic significance,

suggesting that the intimate moment shared between the lovers is observed and perhaps even ordained by forces

beyond their control. The images of stars watching from above evoke awe and reverence, implying that their

connection transcends mere human experience and is imbued with a sense of destiny or divine intervention.
This metaphorical portrayal elevates the romance to a celestial level, underscoring their love's timeless and

universal nature.

"Your eyes are where I'm lost in" (Mars, 2017).

The line illustrates a profound emotional connection between the singer and their partner. By likening

the eyes to a gateway to the soul, Mars suggests that the depth of their gaze transcends mere physical attraction,

delving into the essence of their being. This metaphor implies that the singer is captivated by their partner's

external beauty and their inner self's depth and complexity, fostering a sense of intimacy and connection that

goes beyond surface-level attraction.

"Underneath the chandelier"(Mars, 2017).

The lyric metaphorically represents luxury and opulence, creating an ambiance of extravagance and

sophistication. The chandelier symbolizes wealth and grandeur and sets the stage for a romantic encounter

elevated above the ordinary. This metaphorical imagery evokes a sense of indulgence and elegance, suggesting

that the lovers are immersed in a setting that befits the intensity and passion of their connection, enhancing the

intimacy and allure of their romantic rendezvous.

“I'll be right here ready to hold you

Girl you know you're perfect from
Your head down to your heels”
(Mars, 2017).
The metaphoric lyrics underscore a profound sense of unconditional love and admiration. By expressing

readiness to embrace the partner and affirming their perfection from head to heels, Mars conveys a deep

acceptance and appreciation for every aspect of their being. This metaphorical imagery extends beyond physical

appearance to encompass personality traits, suggesting that the singer cherishes their partner's entirety without

reservation or condition, fostering a sense of security and emotional intimacy within the relationship.
 “Let's just kiss 'til we're naked, baby
Versace on the floor”
(Mars, 2017).
The lyrics employ the metaphor of Versace clothing strewn on the floor to symbolize the abandonment

of materialism and superficiality in pursuit of genuine intimacy and passion. The mention of Versace, associated

with luxury and extravagance, juxtaposed with its being discarded, suggests a deliberate choice to prioritize

authentic connection over material possessions. This metaphorical imagery conveys a sense of vulnerability and

openness as the lovers strip away external trappings to reveal their true selves, fostering a deeper and more

meaningful bond in the process.

“Dance, It's warmin' up

Can you feel it? It's warmin' up
Can you feel it? It's warmin' up”
(Mars, 2017).
In "Versace on the Floor" by Bruno Mars, the invitation to dance and the subsequent mention of "It's

warmin' up / Can you feel it?" utilize dancing as a metaphor for the deepening physical and emotional connection

between the lovers. As the dance progresses and intensifies, it mirrors their escalating passion and desire. The

warmth mentioned symbolizes the physical closeness and the growing fervor and intensity of their emotional

bond. This metaphorical imagery underscores the dynamic nature of their relationship, highlighting the gradual

unfolding of their passion and their increasing intimacy as they move together in the dance of love.

Metaphors enrich the lyrical narrative and evoke a vivid and sensual atmosphere. Through imagery such

as stars watching from above, Versace clothing on the floor, and dancing as a metaphor for escalating passion,

Mars crafts a story of intense romance and intimate connection. These metaphors elevate the song beyond mere

description, infusing it with layers of meaning and emotion that resonate with listeners. By employing

metaphors that symbolize the abandonment of materialism, deep emotional connection, and escalating desire,

Mars invites the audience into a world of timeless love and passionate encounters. Ultimately, the metaphors in

"Versace on the Floor" contribute to its universal appeal and enduring allure, making it a captivating ode to the

power of love and intimacy.

References:
Bruno Mars – Versace on the floor. (2017). Genius. https://genius.com/Bruno-mars-versace-on-the-floor-lyrics
How can you analyze the use of metaphor in a text? (2024, January 19). https://www.linkedin.com