The meaning of Cassandra by Abba
Cassandra is a song by ABBA, released in 1988 as part of their album The Singles: The First Ten Years. The song's lyrics are inspired by Greek mythology, specifically the story of Cassandra, the princess of Troy who was cursed by the god Apollo to have the gift of prophecy, but also be unable to change her fate.
The song's narrator is drawn to a woman named Cassandra, who has a mysterious and alluring presence about her. The lyrics describe her as having "a smile that's like the sun" and being "a vision in white", suggesting that she is radiant and beautiful. However, despite her charm, Cassandra is also portrayed as being cursed, much like the mythological character from which she takes her name.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "Cassandra, Cassandra, don't you know who I am?" implying that the narrator is trying to connect with Cassandra on a deeper level, but is met with indifference. This theme of longing and unrequited love is a common thread throughout ABBA's discography, and Cassandra is no exception.
Musically, Cassandra features a soaring chorus and a driving beat, characteristic of ABBA's signature sound. The song's instrumentation includes prominent use of synthesizers, guitars, and drums, which gives it a bright and airy feel.
Despite not being one of ABBA's most well-known songs, Cassandra has developed a loyal following over the years. It is often cited as a fan favorite among ABBA enthusiasts, and its unique blend of mythology-inspired lyrics and catchy melody have made it a staple of the band's live shows.