Mona Lisa
Michael Cretu Lyrics

Mona Lisa
The subject of the song, likely referring to the famous portrait of a woman by Leonardo da Vinci

You started ages ago
Mona Lisa has existed for a long time, which could refer to either the portrait's creation or its cultural impact over time

One minute after the glow
Mona Lisa's beauty or aura has lasted beyond any short-lived infatuation or excitement

You watch continuous motion
Mona Lisa observes the world, but without displaying any outward emotion or reaction

Without a show of emotion
Mona Lisa remains impassive, regardless of what she sees or experiences

You know the game and the slaves
Mona Lisa understands the nature of power dynamics and those who are subservient to them

Can you see them
The singer asks if Mona Lisa can truly observe and empathize with the suffering of others

As they are dyin' in waves
People are dying in large numbers, either literally or figuratively

Do you always
The artist probes whether Mona Lisa habitually thinks or acts in a certain way

Count in murder and tears of pain
The artist questions whether Mona Lisa is fixated on violence and sorrow, either as an observer or participant

Has a flower
Referring to a person as a flower, the singer wonders if anyone is immune to the negative forces at play

To be stained in a red rain
The flower will be damaged or destroyed in a brutal manner

Can idols show me the way
The singer questions whether any hero or icon can guide them through their struggles

Can you hear me
The singer wonders if Mona Lisa can truly understand their situation and respond accordingly

As ravens darken the sky
The scene is ominous, as if bad omens or death is approaching

You watch the glamorous fire
Mona Lisa observes something exciting or attractive, but again without any explicit emotion

It will erase the entire
The all-consuming flame will destroy everything in its path

Do you know me
The singer asks if Mona Lisa truly understands them or what they are going through

I'm a part of the rise and fall
The singer is part of a larger cycle of triumphs and defeats in history, society, or personal life

An' I can't smile at
The artist is unable to find joy or positivity in their situation

My own life as a sideshow
The artist feels like a minor or inferior part of society, or that their experiences are being ignored or belittled

In 86 we arrive
Referring to a specific year, the artist highlights relevance or importance of that time in their life

Just in the prime of my life
The singer is young, healthy, and vibrant

Now I see that
The artist's perspective has shifted since that earlier time

If I cry for the moon tonight
The singer asks if it is unrealistic to have big dreams or desires

I'll be searchin'
Regardless of the difficulty or futility, the singer will keep seeking that dream

Just for someone on my side
The singer wants and needs someone to support, help, or understand them so they can pursue their goals

I'll never trust in a lie
The artist values honesty and transparency in others and themselves

Time and again I will try
The artist is resilient and persistent, even if they don't always get it right

In every location
The singer has experienced their struggles and needs in multiple settings or situations

I find the right explanation
Through this process, the singer discovers what they need to do or where they need to be to find fulfillment or success

I can try
The song ends with a final affirmation that the artist will continue to persevere and work towards their goals