If You Want Perfection Lyrics

Lyrics Meaning and Impact of "If You Want Perfection" by Michelle Williams & 'Death Becomes Her' Original Broadway Cast

Michelle Williams performing 'If You Want Perfection' in 'Death Becomes Her' musical — Michelle Williams delivering a captivating performance of 'If You Want Perfection' in the 'Death Becomes Her' musical.

Song Credits:

Featuring Artist(s): Michelle Williams
Producer(s): Julia Mattison, Noel Carey
Composer(s): Julia Mattison, Noel Carey
Writer(s): Julia Mattison, Noel Carey
Release Date: November 21, 2024
Label: Concord Theatricals Recordings
Musical Genre: Musical Theater
Album: Death Becomes Her - Broadway Sneak Preview
Language: English
Tags: Musical, Theater, Perfection, Beauty

Song Meaning.

Michelle Williams performing the song 'If You Want Perfection' — Performance of 'If You Want Perfection' by Michelle Williams in the musical.

In the film Death Becomes Her, Lisle Von Rhuman, a wealthy socialite, sells a magical rejuvenating elixir that prevents death once consumed. The potion's benefits include eternal youth, natural color, texture, and appearance of a person's skin, especially the face. The chorus of glamorous immortals supports Viola in most of her numbers. The musical is based on the movie, which was censored to "love" in Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. The ultimate pursuit of Madeline Ashton and Helen Sharp is revenge on the other, highlighting the complexities of human nature and the power of love. "If You Want Perfection" is a satirical take on society's relentless pursuit of beauty and eternal youth. Performed by the character Viola Van Horn, portrayed by Michelle Williams, the song introduces the audience to a world where perfection is attainable—at a cost. The lyrics invite listeners into a realm where flaws are erased, and new, impeccable identities are crafted: "If you want perfection, take a sip and drink it in. Kill your old complexion, welcome to your brand new skin." This invitation symbolizes the temptation of quick fixes and superficial solutions to deeper insecurities. The song critiques the societal pressure to conform to idealized beauty standards, highlighting the lengths individuals might go to achieve unattainable flawlessness. The line, "Wouldn't you just die to look so alive?" poignantly underscores the irony of sacrificing one's true self for a facade of vitality. The song's tone, both alluring and cautionary, reflects the dark comedy inherent in "Death Becomes Her," prompting audiences to reflect on the absurdity of valuing appearance over authenticity.

Which songs share similar perfectionism messages?

Thumbnail from 'If You Want Perfection' lyric video by Michelle Williams — A screenshot from the 'If You Want Perfection' music video, capturing the mood and meaning of the song.

Several songs across genres explore themes of perfection, societal expectations, and self-acceptance. Here are three notable examples:

"Flawless" by Beyoncé: This track challenges conventional beauty standards and empowers listeners to embrace their inherent worth. Beyoncé's incorporation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's speech on feminism further critiques societal pressures placed on women.
"Perfect" by Alanis Morissette: A poignant commentary on the pressures to meet unrealistic expectations, this song delves into the emotional toll of striving for flawlessness, particularly from external sources like family or society.
"Pretty Hurts" by Beyoncé: Addressing the superficial nature of beauty pageants and the broader implications of society's obsession with appearance, this song highlights the sacrifices made in the name of perfection and questions its true value.

Questions and Answers.

What does the potion in "If You Want Perfection" symbolize?: The potion represents society's quick fixes to achieve beauty ideals, often overlooking the underlying issues of self-worth and authenticity.
How does "If You Want Perfection" relate to the overall theme of "Death Becomes Her"?: The song encapsulates the musical's critique of vanity and the extreme measures individuals take to maintain youth and beauty, aligning with the story's dark comedic tone.
Why is the pursuit of perfection portrayed negatively in the song?: The song highlights the dangers of obsessing over perfection, suggesting that such pursuits can lead to a loss of identity and authenticity, ultimately questioning the true cost of flawless appearances.

Scene from 'If You Want Perfection' track by Michelle Williams — Visual effects scene from 'If You Want Perfection' enhancing the experience of the song words and music.

Which awards and chart positions did composition achieve?

As "If You Want Perfection" is part of the "Death Becomes Her" musical, its recognition is intertwined with the show's success. The musical has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative adaptation and performances, with particular praise for Michelle Williams' portrayal of Viola Van Horn. While specific chart positions for the song are not independently listed, the soundtrack's popularity reflects its positive reception.

Fan and Media Reactions.

Audiences and critics alike have lauded "If You Want Perfection" for its sharp wit and engaging commentary on societal beauty standards. Fans have expressed appreciation for Michelle Williams' dynamic performance, noting her ability to balance humor and depth in the portrayal of Viola Van Horn. Media outlets have highlighted the song as a standout number in the musical, praising its clever lyrics and catchy composition. The track has sparked conversations about the pressures of perfectionism in modern society, resonating with listeners who see reflections of their own experiences in the song's narrative.

If You Want Perfection Lyrics - Death Becomes Her