The meaning of Beauty School by Deftones

Whether you're new to the genre, a long-standing fan, or somewhere in between, the Deftones have a unique way of capturing audiences with their deeply layered lyrics and melodic sound. One song that continues to captivate listeners is 'Beauty School'. With a dreamy guitar line and haunting vocals, the track might seem straightforward, but upon closer examination, there's a poignant message woven through the lyrics.

'Beauty School', from the Deftones' sixth studio album "Diamond Eyes", is often seen as a love song, but it explores a much deeper theme of emotional vulnerability and self-reflection. Lead singer Chino Moreno draws from personal experiences to craft this deeply resonant song.

The opening lines, 'I like you when ,' immediately introduce a depth of personal intimacy. Moreno often details his personal life, and this song is no exception. The encapsulating feeling of love and longing is a common theme in Deftones' music, presenting the delicate balance between the rapturous highs and crushing lows of human relationships.

The song further indicates a certain level of unreciprocated emotional investment: 'I'm right beside you / You do yours and I do mine / But mine are better'. This lyric showcases an emotional chasm between the singer and the song’s subject. The 'doing mines' can be interpreted as a metaphor for emotional labor in a relationship where one party gives more than they receive.

It's also important to interpret the title of the song itself. 'Beauty School' is not only about a physical location but also a metaphorical place of learning and understanding. It suggests a transformative phase in life where one learns valuable lessons about love, heartbreak, and oneself.

The unique blend of alternative metal and shoegaze within the instrumental arrangement further enhances the song's depth. The powerful basslines mirroring the lyrics' raw emotion, coupled with the swirling guitar and atmospheric synthesizers, creates a hauntingly beautiful sonic landscape.

In conclusion, 'Beauty School' is a Deftones' song that resonates with a lot of fans due to its emotional depth, personal lyrics, and cohesive sound that draws listeners in. It's a nuanced narrative of longing, emotional disconnect, and personal growth. Its amalgamation of potent lyrics and entrancing melody makes it a standout track in the Deftones discography, revealing the band's ability to evoke powerful emotions through their music.