The Meaning Behind The Song: Many Moons Ago by Lawrence Clayton & Once Upon a Mattress Ensemble (1996)
| Title | Many Moons Ago |
|---|---|
| Artist | Lawrence Clayton & Once Upon a Mattress Ensemble |
| Writer/Composer | Marshall Barer & Mary Rodgers |
| Album | Once Upon a Mattress (1996 Broadway Cast Recording) (1997) |
| Release Date | 1997 |
| Genre | Pop/Broadway/Musicals |
| Producer | Jay David Saks |
The song “Many Moons Ago” is a whimsical and enchanting number from the musical “Once Upon a Mattress” which premiered on Broadway in 1959. This particular version was performed by Lawrence Clayton and the ensemble from the 1996 Broadway cast recording. The lyrics were written by Marshall Barer and the music was composed by Mary Rodgers, daughter of the legendary Richard Rodgers.
The song takes us into a far-off place where a handsome prince is in search of a suitable bride. Despite his gloomy face, the prince longs for a princess who would meet his mother’s high standards. The lyrics describe a princess as a delicate and dainty creature, rare to find. The prince remains unsuccessful in his quest until a stormy night brings a lost princess to the castle door.
In order to test the authenticity of the princess, the queen decides to place a tiny pea under twenty mattresses on her bed. The true princess would be so sensitive that even a small pea would cause her discomfort and indicate her royal lineage. Despite the soft and tall bed, the dainty princess doesn’t sleep at all. The next day, she reveals her discomfort to the queen, proving her authenticity as a true princess.
The joyous proclamation of her royalty leads to the celebration of the upcoming wedding, signified by the wedding music playing. The song emphasizes the delicacy and rarity of a genuine princess, and how she stands out among others due to her elegant air and sensitivity. It ends with the understanding that being a true princess is not an easy feat.
Personally, “Many Moons Ago” holds a special place in my heart. I vividly remember watching a high school production of “Once Upon a Mattress” several years ago. As the song played, the performers brought the stage to life with their talented voices and lively choreography. I was captivated by the story and the enchanting atmosphere created by the music.
The song reflects the timeless theme of true love and the search for authenticity. It highlights the ideals of elegance and sensitivity, reminding us that sometimes it takes courage and vulnerability to reveal our true selves. The test of the pea under the mattresses serves as a metaphor for the challenges and obstacles we face in finding our place in the world.
While “Many Moons Ago” is a fun and lighthearted song, it also carries a deeper message about societal expectations and the quest for true connection. Through the eyes of the prince, we witness the pressure to conform and the difficulty of finding someone who meets the standards set by others. It shines a light on the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity.
This song resonates with many people because we all have moments in our lives when we feel like the prince, searching for our own “princess” or someone who truly understands and accepts us. It reminds us of the value of individuality and the courage to remain true to who we are, even if it means being different or going against societal norms.
There are many versions of the story of “The Princess and the Pea,” but this particular rendition brings forth a unique perspective. The narrator, the minstrel, reveals that the true story involved not just one princess, but thirteen girls who hoped to wed the prince. It adds depth to the tale and reminds us that there are often hidden stories behind the ones we know.
In conclusion, “Many Moons Ago” is a delightful and meaningful song that explores the themes of love, authenticity, and societal expectations. It captures the enchanting world of fairy tales and reminds us of the importance of staying true to ourselves. Whether we are searching for our own “princess” or simply navigating through life, the song serves as a reminder to embrace our uniqueness and seek genuine connections.
References:
Album title: Once Upon a Mattress (1996 Broadway Cast Recording) (1997)
