Meaning of "Mona Lisa" by Grant-Lee Phillips

The lyrics of "Mona Lisa" by Grant-Lee Phillips capture the timeless and enigmatic nature of the Mona Lisa's famous smile. The song begins by acknowledging Mona Lisa as the last of her kind, a unique figure who possesses an ability to make everything alright with just a wink of her eye. This establishes her as a symbol of enduring beauty and strength. The chorus emphasizes that nothing stays the same, but the narrator won't ask that of Mona Lisa. Her burgundy smile, referring to the color palette of the painting, is cherished and remains unchanging. It is a source of comfort and assurance in a world where everything else is subject to change and decay.

The second verse continues to emphasize the transient nature of life, with the narrator expressing personal experiences of going through difficult times. However, in contrast to the ephemeral nature of human existence, Mona Lisa's smile gathers no dirt. This suggests that her smile is unmarred by the passage of time, displaying a consistency and inner strength that the narrator finds inspiring. The phrase "bathe in the light" implies a sense of renewal or transcendence that comes from being connected to something eternal and pure.

The bridge of the song reveals that Mona Lisa has taught the narrator an important lesson. The narrator has set aside this lesson, a symbol of the enduring impact it has had on their life. The lesson is described as a kind of magic touch that Mona Lisa possesses, which can be called upon whenever needed. This further reinforces the idea that Mona Lisa's smile represents resilience and an unwavering spirit. It suggests that her smile is not only a source of strength for herself but also for those who look upon her.

The overall meaning of "Mona Lisa" is a celebration of the power and significance of a timeless smile. It serves as a reminder of the enduring beauty that can persevere through the trials and challenges of life. The song expresses gratitude to Mona Lisa for teaching the narrator the value of a smile that remains constant and untouchable, offering solace and inspiration in a world that is constantly changing.