Olympian Lyrics - Gene

Background and Context
"Olympian" by Gene, featured on the "One Day (Netflix)" soundtrack, is a sing that captures the essence of the Britpop era with its emotive lyrics and expansive sound. Gene, often compared to bands like The Smiths for their lyrical depth and melodic richness, released "Olympian" in the mid-1990s, a time when British rock was undergoing a significant resurgence. The song's inclusion in a Netflix series soundtrack suggests its emotional and narrative relevance, offering a backdrop of introspection and intensity to the series' themes.

Main Message and Theme
"Olympian" is a grandiose declaration of devotion and sacrigice in the face of unrequited love or a challenging relationship. The lyrics oscillate between adoration and despair, capturing the complexity of giving oneself entirely to another person. The song speaks to the human experience of love's trials, embodying the hope, pain, and ultimate resilience of the spirit. The repeated references to being "framed by God" and an "Olympian" suggest a striving for greatness and perfection in love, despite the inevitable flaws and setbacks.

Emotion and Style
The song's emotional weight is carried by its lush instrumentation and the earnestness of the vocal delivery. "Olympian" builds from a simple, poignant melody into a powerful, anthemic climax, reflecting the tumultuous nature of the emotions being expressed. The style combines elements of rock with orchestral flourishes, creating a sound that is both grand and intimately personal. The dynamic shifts in the music mirror the lyrical themes of hope and despair, love and loss.

Interpretation and Analysis
The opening lines, "Give me something I can hold / With that something I will grow," set the stage for a narrative about the transformative power of love and the desire for something tangible to cling to in times of uncertainty. The plea for "water to cool off" speaks to the intensity of the feelings involved, suggesting a need to temper the passion that threatens to consume the narrator.

The chorus, "How can you decline / Such grand designs?" and the assertion, "I'm flattered that you thought / I make a good reward," reflect a mix of disbelief, pride, and perhaps a hint of sarcasm at the idea of being valued so highly, yet seemingly undervalued at the same time. The complexity of the relationship is further explored through the admission of "blatant lies," indicating a flawed yet deeply human connection.

The repetition of "I, I wanted to be there with you / For I, can only be normal with you" emphasizes a profound dependency and the notion that only in the presence of the loved one can the narrator truly be themselves. This sentiment, coupled with "I've given my all for you," underscores the depth of commitment and the sense of vulnerability that comes with total emotional investment.