“Happiness is a Butterfly” by Lana Del Rey
“Happiness is a Butterfly” is another song in which Lana is speaking of some sort of romantic relationship she is in that is less than ideal. However, she is still committed to her partner and the union in general.
In this particular case, there appears to be a number of issues. First off, her lover is inconsistent in terms of the sentiments he expresses. Secondly, he appears to be somewhat a womanizer. Also, considering that at one point of the song Lana is “crying in the backseat”, we can take from granted that arguments are also a part of their relationship.
In terms of trying of ascertain how long they have been together, at some points she sings as if this is an established relationship. And at others, it sounds as if she is talking about someone whom she is only now getting acquainted with. So it is possible that she is referring to more than one individual/relationship in this song.
And the sentiment Lana is ultimately expressing is a desire to be happy, in a romantic sense. She “just wants to dance” with her lover, as in engage in some carefree enjoyment. But she also acknowledges, as the title states, that “happiness is a butterfly”. This is a symbolic statement. And what it alludes to is the elusiveness of happiness, particularly in the life of the singer and once again specifically in the romantic sense.
So at the end of the day, the songstress is portrayed as someone who has had her fair share of trials and tribulations in the world of romance. Yet she continues to strive for fulfillment, even in the most-simplest forms (i.e. dancing), in that regard.
Origin of Song’s title (“Happiness is a Butterfly”)
Lana is believed to have derived the title of this song from a famous Nathaniel Hawthorne quote. In that quote, Hawthorne compares happiness to a butterfly which if pursued, would elude you. However, if you wait patiently for it, it might just come to you.
Writing Credits for “Happiness is a Butterfly”
Three songwriters (including Lana Del Rey) wrote this song. The other two are Jack Antonoff (who also co-produced the tune) and Rick Nowels. In addition to being a co-writer on “Happiness is a Butterfly”, Lana is also a co-producer.
Release Date of “Happiness is a Butterfly”
Lana and her team released “Happiness is a Butterfly” worldwide on August 30th, 2019. It must be mentioned that this track wasn’t issued as a single. It appears as track number 13 on Lana’s Norman F Rockwell! album.
Official Singles from Norman F Rockwell!
These are the six official singles that Lana released globally from the critically acclaimed album Norman F Rockwell:
- “Mariners Apartment Complex”
- “Venice B”
- “Hope Is a Dangerous Thing for Woman Like Me to Have – but I Have It”
- “Doin’ Time”
- “F It, I Love You”
- “The Greatest“
