Metaphor As A Figurative Language Device

A metaphor is “a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable” (“Metaphor”). Songs tend to use figurative language to engage the listeners in a more creative note, drawing their attention to not only the lyrics, but the meaning behind them as well. In some ways, it can connect the listener’s emotions or feelings to the way the song was written. The song Titanium wrote by David Guetta ft. Sia has many types of figurative language throughout the song, but metaphors stand out among the rest.

In the song “Titanium”, the main point that the singer and songwriters were trying to get across was that no matter how many times you get knocked or shot down, you can power through it, as if you were made out of metal. First listening to the song, many people can understand the main idea of the lyrics and feel the empowerment that the lyrics bring. “I’m criticized but all your bullets ricochet. You shoot me down, but I get up” (00.00. 31-42). Not only is the beginning of the song powerful enough, the beat gradually increases and drops as the chorus line hits, signifying that upbeat and strength that it has. The symbolism that this song portrays is the emotional strength that a person has within themself; to never let negative words or actions hit into your core and affect you as a person. Many people in their lives face criticism, bullying, or basic judgment in their lives, but songs like these show that people need to be strong in order to show that they are more powerful than the words that are thrown against them. Brave is the word that I would use to describe the listeners and singer of “Titanium”. Bravery seems to be the tone among the song, spoken through the lyrics.

A metaphor is something that is commonly used in songs, poems, and other sources of writing. Metaphors can change the way that we, readers or listeners, think of concepts or ideas. They can psychologically shift your thoughts or opinions on certain topics being discussed, just by how the writer portrays the situation. In this case, the lyrics being the song “Titanium” don’t try to change the way that we think, in fact, they try to enhance our self-worth and bravery. They are sung in a way to boost our self-esteem and make us believe, in an exaggerated way, that we are indestructible just like metal. “Ricochet, you take your aim,

Fire away, fire away. You shoot me down, but I won’t fall, I am titanium.” (00.00.54 – 00.01.09). Saying that you are titanium, that nothing can shoot through you is an example, in fact, the biggest example of a metaphor throughout the whole song. It’s an exaggeration of the truth. Everyone who is human knows that we are not indestructible, but the lyrics want you to feel as if you are; as if nothing can break through you.

The lyrics of “Titanium” are not only metaphors but also hyperboles. Hyperboles are defined as “exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally”. When the singer sings “Shoot me down, but I won’t fall, I am titanium” (00.01.10 – 00.01.16), they are using not only a metaphor but also hyperbole. Again, we are not made of metal. In reality, if someone were to shoot us, we would be wounded, but in the song, it’s an exaggeration of the truth. We can build our minds and feelings up to believe that our ego, confidence, heart, etc. can become bulletproof to the point where others’ words or opinions couldn’t hurt us, but our exterior bodies will never be bulletproof. The song repeats the chorus repeatedly to try and drill it into our brains that we are more than what others say about us. We are stronger than we think that we are and that’s powerful in itself. There are a lot of songs out there in the music industry that tries to build up people’s confidence but being told that you are indestructible is what I personally believe made this song as popular as it is. Everyone wants to be encouraged and uplifted and I think that this is the perfect song to do so.

In Conclusion, there are many figurative language devices used throughout pieces of writing, but song lyrics tend to have obvious metaphors that stand out among the rest. The song “Titanium” by David Guetta featuring Sia is a perfect example of showing bravery, strength, power, confidence, and just the ability to overcome any obstacle or harsh words sent your way. It helps build and support the listeners’ emotional strength and gives them hope that they can do it, even if they’re not confident in themselves. Figurative language intensifies this song and makes it what it is today.