An Analytical Exploration of “Reflection” by Lea Salonga

An Analytical Essay
Presented to
Ms. Melody Poblete

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for
GED-US | Understanding the Self

by

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November 2023
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Analytical Essay

Introduction: delete raning introduction ha, sign rani nga mao ning intro niya

"Reflection" by Lea Salonga is a poignant song that originated as part of Disney's

animated film "Mulan," released in 1998. The song, written by Matthew Wilder and
David Zippel, serves as a powerful exploration of identity and self-discovery within the
context of the film. In "Mulan," the protagonist Mulan grapples with the societal
expectations imposed on her as a young woman in ancient China. The song becomes a
pivotal moment in the narrative as Mulan, voiced by Ming-Na Wen, reflects on her
struggle to conform to traditional gender roles and the pressure to uphold family honor.
Lea Salonga, known for her powerful vocals, provides a heartfelt rendition of the song
as the singing voice of Mulan.

"Reflection" captures Mulan's internal conflict and her yearning to break free from
societal constraints. The lyrics convey a deep sense of introspection and a desire to be
true to oneself, even if it means challenging established norms. The song becomes a
thematic cornerstone in the film, highlighting Mulan's journey towards self-discovery,
courage, and empowerment. Lea Salonga's emotive delivery adds emotional depth to
the song, making it resonate not only within the context of the film but also as a
standalone piece. "Reflection" has endured as a symbol of empowerment and a source
of inspiration for those navigating their own paths of self-discovery and identity,
transcending its role in the film to become a beloved anthem for many.

Body: yay body nata , delete japon ning body na term

"Mulan" is a Disney animated film that draws inspiration from the Chinese legend of Hua
Mulan, a brave young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father's
place in the army. Released in 1998, the film is set in ancient China during the Han
Dynasty. Mulan, voiced by Ming-Na Wen, is a character who challenges traditional
gender roles and societal expectations to protect her family and country. The cultural
context of the film is rooted in Chinese history and folklore, incorporating elements such
as honor, family duty, and the importance of individual strength. Music plays a crucial
role in conveying emotions and themes in animated films like "Mulan." In the case of
"Reflection," performed by Lea Salonga, the song serves as a powerful vehicle for
expressing Mulan's internal struggles and quest for self-identity. The emotional
resonance of the music enhances the audience's connection with the characters and
the narrative. Beyond "Reflection," the film's score, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, and
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other musical numbers contribute to the overall atmosphere, helping to establish the
cultural setting, heighten tension, and evoke a range of emotions. Music becomes a
vital storytelling tool, enriching the animated experience by amplifying the characters'
emotions and the underlying themes of the narrative. It transforms "Mulan" from a
visually engaging animated film into a multidimensional cinematic experience that
captivates audiences of all ages.

The key lyrics of "Reflection" reflect Mulan's profound internal struggle as she grapples
with issues of identity and societal expectations. Let's break down two crucial phrases:
"Who is that girl I see staring straight back at me?" This line conveys Mulan's confusion
and self-doubt as she confronts her reflection. The use of "girl" emphasizes the societal
expectations placed on her based on her gender. Mulan is questioning the person she
sees, suggesting a disconnect between her true self and the societal role she is
expected to fulfill. The repetition of "staring straight back at me" emphasizes the
intensity of her introspection, as if she is searching for answers within herself. "When
will my reflection show who I am inside?" This lyric encapsulates Mulan's central
struggle for self-discovery and authenticity. The use of "reflection" symbolizes societal
expectations and the image she presents to the world. The question "When will..."
expresses a yearning for a future time when her true self, her inner identity, can be
openly revealed. The phrase "who I am inside" underscores the conflict between her
genuine self and the facade she must maintain. It encapsulates Mulan's desire to break
free from the constraints imposed by societal norms and to be accepted for who she
truly is. In these lyrics, Mulan's internal conflict is palpable, highlighting the tension
between societal expectations and her individual identity. The song becomes a powerful
expression of the universal struggle for authenticity, resonating with audiences as they
empathize with Mulan's journey of self-discovery and the courage it takes to defy
societal norms.

Lea Salonga's vocal performance in "Reflection" contributes significantly to the

emotional depth of the lyrics. Her expressive and emotive delivery captures the essence
of Mulan's internal struggle, infusing the song with authenticity and vulnerability.
Salonga's ability to convey a range of emotions through her voice enhances the
listener's connection to the character and the song's themes. In the opening lines,
Salonga's voice is tender and introspective, mirroring Mulan's uncertainty and
introspection. As the song progresses, her vocal intensity increases, reflecting the
growing emotional turmoil Mulan experiences in her quest for self-discovery. Salonga's
nuanced interpretation of the lyrics, with subtle shifts in tone and dynamics, adds layers
of complexity to the character's emotional journey.
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The choice of musical instruments and the tempo of the song also play a crucial role in
conveying its emotional tone. The orchestration features a mix of traditional Chinese
musical elements and Western orchestral arrangements. The integration of Chinese
instruments like the pipa and erhu adds cultural authenticity, anchoring the song in its
Chinese setting. This blending of musical styles enhances the film's overall atmosphere
and reinforces Mulan's cultural context. The tempo of the song is deliberate and
measured, allowing for a contemplative and introspective mood. The pacing mirrors
Mulan's internal struggle, creating a sense of tension and anticipation. During the more
emotional moments of the song, the tempo may subtly vary to underscore the intensity
of Mulan's feelings. These musical choices work in tandem with Salonga's vocal
performance to elevate the emotional impact of "Reflection," making it a standout piece
that resonates with audiences on a deep emotional level.

"Reflection" serves as a pivotal moment in Mulan's character development, representing

a turning point and a profound moment of self-realization in the film. As Mulan grapples
with societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles, the
song becomes a vehicle for her innermost thoughts and emotions. Lea Salonga's
stirring vocals, combined with the poignant lyrics, convey Mulan's internal struggle and
desire for authenticity. The moment she sings, "Who is that girl I see staring straight
back at me?" encapsulates Mulan's introspection, highlighting her uncertainty about her
own identity. As the song progresses, Mulan's internal conflict intensifies, reaching a
climax with the poignant question, "When will my reflection show who I am inside?" This
lyric encapsulates Mulan's yearning for self-discovery and acceptance. "Reflection" not
only serves as a musical expression of Mulan's emotional turmoil but also signifies a
transformative moment in the narrative. It becomes a catalyst for Mulan's decision to
defy societal expectations and embrace her true self. The song empowers her to
embark on a journey of self-discovery, courage, and authenticity, laying the foundation
for her heroic actions later in the film. Overall, "Reflection" contributes significantly to
Mulan's character arc, marking a crucial moment of self-realization and setting the stage
for her transformation into a courageous and independent warrior.

"Reflection" resonates with a broader audience by addressing universal themes of

identity, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. The
song's exploration of Mulan's internal struggle strikes a chord with individuals who have
grappled with questions of identity and the pressure to conform to societal norms.
Mulan's poignant journey of questioning her reflection and yearning for authenticity
transcends cultural boundaries, making the song relatable to people from various
backgrounds. The lyrics, such as "Who is that girl I see staring straight back at me?"
and "When will my reflection show who I am inside?" touch on the profound internal
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Bulaong Extension, General Santos City
Tel. No. 553-1937/ Cp. No. 0995-293-0804

conflicts faced by many, particularly those dealing with issues of gender roles and
societal pressures. The song becomes a powerful anthem for anyone who has felt the
need to break free from expectations, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves
despite external judgments. "Reflection" goes beyond the context of the film, becoming
a timeless expression of the human experience and a call for authenticity in the face of
societal norms.

Conclusion: summarize key points sa essay

In conclusion, Lea Salonga's rendition of "Reflection" in Disney's animated film "Mulan"

is a masterful exploration of identity, self-discovery, and societal expectations. The song
not only serves as a poignant moment in Mulan's character development, but its themes
resonate on a universal level, making it a timeless anthem for individuals grappling with
questions of authenticity and societal pressures. Salonga's emotive vocals breathe life
into Mulan's internal struggle, capturing the essence of a character torn between
societal expectations and the desire for self-realization. The song's powerful lyrics and
the fusion of cultural elements in the musical arrangement create a multifaceted
emotional experience, elevating it beyond its role in the film. "Reflection" stands as a
testament to the enduring impact of music in conveying complex emotions and
exploring profound themes, making it a resonant and cherished piece for audiences
around the world.