The Meaning Behind The Song: What’s This? by Danny Elfman
The Meaning Behind The Song: “What’s This?” by Danny Elfman
“What’s This?” is a captivating song composed by the talented musician Danny Elfman for the beloved animated film “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” The track appears in the movie when Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, stumbles upon Christmastown, a whimsical and enchanting place filled with joy and wonder. This song perfectly captures the sense of confusion, excitement, and curiosity that Jack experiences as he discovers a whole new world beyond his own. Let’s delve deeper into the meaning behind this iconic song and its significance in the movie.
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How does “What’s This?” portray Jack Skellington’s character development?
Throughout the film, Jack Skellington goes through a remarkable journey of self-discovery. As the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, he feels unfulfilled and seeks something more meaningful in his existence. When he stumbles upon Christmastown, everything changes. “What’s This?” showcases Jack’s transformation from someone craving novelty to someone experiencing genuine passion and love for the joyous aspects of Christmas.
The lyrical content of the song brilliantly mirrors Jack’s evolving perspective. At first, he approaches Christmastown with bewilderment, gradually morphing into genuine enthusiasm as he marvels at the winter wonderland laid out before him. The line “What’s this? The streets are lined with little creatures laughing” beautifully encapsulates Jack’s initial confusion and subsequent delight. His curiosity leads him to explore the world of Christmas, hoping to understand its essence and potentially bring it to Halloween Town.
As the song progresses, the lyrics reflect Jack’s growing enchantment with Christmas. It becomes apparent that he wishes to immerse himself in the festive spirit, longing to experience the same joy and happiness that he witnesses in Christmastown. The line “What’s this? What’s this? There’s magic in the air!” showcases Jack’s increasing desire to bring the magic of Christmas back to his own realm, shedding his previous dreary perceptions and embracing the bright and lively aspects of this new holiday.
FAQs: The Meaning Behind “What’s This?”
1. Why is “What’s This?” such a memorable song?
“What’s This?” stands out due to its infectious energy and the vivid emotions it portrays. It perfectly captures the sense of wonder and awe when discovering something new and exciting, resonating with audiences of all ages.
2. How does “What’s This?” contribute to the overall message of “The Nightmare Before Christmas”?
The song serves as a pivotal moment in the film, highlighting Jack Skellington’s transformation and his pursuit of happiness. It conveys the importance of embracing change and following one’s true passion, even if it means stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
3. Does “What’s This?” have any hidden symbolism?
While the song does not contain explicit symbolism, it represents the universal theme of curiosity and the desire for growth. Through Jack’s journey, viewers are encouraged to explore new horizons, broaden their perspectives, and embrace the beauty of what lies beyond their familiar surroundings.
4. How does Danny Elfman’s composition elevate the emotions in “What’s This?”?
Elfman’s musical genius is evident in the way he intertwines chaotic and whimsical elements in the song. From the energetic brass section to the soaring vocal melodies, his composition brings out the sense of wonder and captures the essence of Jack’s emotions, making the song truly unforgettable.
5. Is “What’s This?” a love song?
Although “What’s This?” is not a traditional love song, it conveys the love Jack Skellington feels for the concept of Christmas. It portrays the beauty and joy he discovers in Christmastown and his desire to recreate those feelings in his own world.
6. Why is “What’s This?” considered a classic among fans of “The Nightmare Before Christmas”?
The song’s catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and its portrayal of Jack Skellington’s transformation make it a fan favorite. Its inclusion in key moments of the film and its ability to evoke strong emotions contribute to its status as a beloved classic.
7. Does “What’s This?” have any significant impact on the plot of the movie?
Yes, the song serves as a catalyst for the entire story. Jack’s discovery of Christmastown through “What’s This?” sets in motion his desire to take over Christmas and ultimately leads to the central conflict of the film.
8. How does “What’s This?” compare to other songs in the film?
While “What’s This?” is just one of the many outstanding songs in “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” it particularly stands out for its infectious energy and the pivotal role it plays in Jack Skellington’s character development.
9. Can “What’s This?” be enjoyed outside the context of the movie?
Absolutely! Even without watching the film, “What’s This?” can be appreciated as a standalone track. Its melodic hooks, dynamic structure, and vividly descriptive lyrics make it an enjoyable song on its own.
10. How did the collaboration between Danny Elfman and Tim Burton influence “What’s This?”?
The collaboration between Elfman and Burton was instrumental in creating the unique atmosphere of the song. Elfman’s composition perfectly complements Burton’s distinct visual style, resulting in a seamless fusion of music and imagery that enhances the impact of “What’s This?” and the entire film.
In conclusion, “What’s This?” is a remarkable song from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” that encapsulates Jack Skellington’s transformation and his pursuit of happiness. Through this iconic track, Danny Elfman beautifully captures the emotions of curiosity, awe, and excitement, making it an unforgettable piece of music. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply appreciate great music, “What’s This?” is sure to leave a lasting impression.
