"Satisfied" is a song from the musical "Hamilton," created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Narrative Structure: "Satisfied" is unique in its narrative structure. The song is sung by Angelica Schuyler during the wedding of Alexander Hamilton and her sister Eliza. It is a retrospective song where Angelica revisits her past interactions with Hamilton and how she had to let him go, ultimately paving the way for him to marry Eliza.
Reverse Chronology: The song utilizes a reverse chronology technique, where Angelica recounts her memories in reverse order, starting from the moment of Hamilton's wedding and going back in time to their first encounter. This clever structure adds depth to the characters and their relationships.
Themes of Sacrifice and Longing: "Satisfied" explores the complex emotions of Angelica Schuyler. She loves Hamilton but realizes that he and her sister Eliza are a better match. The song delves into themes of sacrifice, unrequited love, and the idea of doing what's best for someone you care about, even if it means sacrificing your own happiness.
Wordplay and Lyrics: The song is filled with intricate wordplay and clever lyrics, showcasing Lin-Manuel Miranda's mastery of language. Angelica's lines often rhyme in complex patterns, emphasizing her intelligence and wit.
Emotional Performance: Renée Elise Goldsberry, the actress who originated the role of Angelica Schuyler, delivered a powerful performance of "Satisfied." Her vocal prowess and emotional delivery contributed to the song's impact on audiences.
Musical References: The song incorporates musical references and motifs from previous songs in "Hamilton." It weaves in melodies and phrases from "Helpless," which is sung from Eliza's perspective during the same wedding scene. This musical connection ties the two sisters' stories together.
Character Development: "Satisfied" provides crucial insight into Angelica's character. It highlights her conflicted feelings and her decision to prioritize her sister's happiness over her own. This moment is pivotal in shaping the audience's perception of Angelica's complex personality.
Tony Award Recognition: Renée Elise Goldsberry's performance of "Satisfied" earned her the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical at the 70th Tony Awards in 2016. This recognition underscored the song's impact on the musical's success.
Critical Acclaim: "Satisfied" is often praised as one of the standout numbers in "Hamilton." Its emotional depth, narrative innovation, and the skillful blending of music and storytelling have made it a fan favorite.
Continued Popularity: Even after several years since its debut, "Satisfied" remains a beloved and frequently discussed song from "Hamilton." It continues to resonate with audiences and spark discussions about its themes and artistic execution.
"Satisfied" stands out not only as a captivating musical number within "Hamilton" but also as a prime example of how musical theater can effectively convey complex emotions and storytelling techniques.