Conceptual Metaphor in Three Selected Song Lyrics by Troye Sivan

Abstract

This study explores the metaphorical expressions and the intertwined emotional and social dimensions in Troye Sivan’s song “Angel Baby, Easy and Talk Me Down.” Music, as a form of artistic expression, often employs metaphors to translate complex emotions and lived experiences into relatable imagery that resonates with listeners. Through qualitative content analysis, this research identifies and interprets the metaphors present in the song's lyrics by examining their literal meanings, figurative interpretations, and emotional and social implications. The findings reveal that ontological and structural metaphor dominantly shape the metaphorical themes such as angelic imagery, rebirth, vulnerability, sacrifice, security, fear of loss, and intimacy, which together construct love as a transformative, redemptive, and deeply human experience. These metaphors portray romantic attachment as a source of emotional healing, devotion, and renewal, while also reflecting broader social understandings of intimacy, emotional dependence, and relational values in contemporary culture. Overall, the study concludes that Sivan's strategic use of metaphor not only enhances the lyrical and emotional depth of Angel Baby, Easy and Talk Me Down but also functions as a subtle form of social reflection. By bridging personal emotional experiences with shared cultural meanings, the song shows how metaphor plays a central role in shaping interpretations of love, vulnerability, and human connection within popular music. Further research may investigate how other musicians may construct the meaning of love within their musical sense both comparatively and semiotically as the limitations of this study.