By Hannah Bower; Photo Credits to Hannah Bower
If you’re looking for a song that both compliments the Halloween season and your feminine rage, then you may want to add “Kiss the Ring” by Mollie Elizabeth to your playlist. Part of her unreleased album People Pleaser, this song expresses the frustration of women who have given everything to the world only to be granted nothing in return.
One of the most beautiful elements of this song is the sheer poetry that Elizabeth provides. The lyrics that resonate most with me are the very opening lines: “Why’d God make me pretty just to drop me in the dirt?” From the start, themes of abandonment are explored, specifically by religion and those who are supposed to be family. As the song progresses through the chorus, you can hear the reclaiming of one’s sense of self. The music crescendos with intention as we hear “I’ve had enough of givin’/Watchin,’ wishin,’/Bow and kiss the ring.”
Elizabeth has also outdone herself with the instrumental accompaniment. We begin with hearing a “dark cabaret” tune, as she has described it, almost like a music box that she sings along with. Through the second chorus, the music matches the divine feminine energy that we hear from Elizabeth. The same melody repeats throughout, but it is different each time. As soon as the violins come in with booming volume and power, they are silent just as quickly, leaving us with an echo of the fantasy that was once there.
The artistic quality of the music video only elevates this piece further. It is not terribly complex, but it doesn’t need to be. Much of the three minutes features Elizabeth adorning herself with various necklaces, rings, and other fine jewelry. She eventually begins taking them from other people sitting at the table to put them on and admire herself. Later, she is behind bars. It is a very simple concept but was immensely effective. The repetition of the scenes only made for a more emotional effect, with the royal image unfortunately only being true to herself.
You may be familiar with Mollie Elizabeth’s single, “Run Rabbit,” as it has made its way across most social media. If not, I highly recommend giving her a listen. Not only is her music perfect for witchy, October vibes, but it is written for women looking to take back their autonomy.