The meaning of Mascara by Deftones

The song "Mascara" by Deftones is a standout track from their 2001 album White Pony. On the surface, the lyrics appear to be about a romantic relationship, but upon closer inspection, they reveal a deeper exploration of themes such as intimacy, vulnerability, and the blurring of lines between reality and fantasy.

The song's title, "Mascara," refers to the makeup used to enhance or conceal one's appearance. This theme is echoed in the lyrics, which describe a desire to see past the surface-level facade of someone's identity and tap into their true emotions. The opening lines, "I'll be your mascara, I'll be your best friend," suggest a willingness to become an extension of oneself, to be a trusted confidant.

Throughout the song, Chino Moreno's vocals are marked by his signature blend of smooth, melodic delivery and raw emotional intensity. His lyrics paint a picture of a relationship where the boundaries between partners are blurred, with lines such as "We'll never find our way out" suggesting a sense of surrender to the unknown. The chorus, "And I'll be your mascara, oh, oh," is particularly noteworthy for its use of the title phrase as a metaphor for emotional connection.

Musically, "Mascara" features Deftones' signature blend of alternative metal and shoegaze elements. The song's driving rhythm section, courtesy of Abe Cunningham's drums and Chi Cheng's bass, provides a propulsive backdrop for Moreno's soaring vocals. The guitar work, handled by Stephen Carpenter, is equally impressive, with its use of atmospheric textures and crunching riffs adding depth to the song's sonic landscape.

Ultimately, "Mascara" can be seen as an exploration of the complexities of human relationships. By using the metaphor of mascara to describe the blurring of boundaries between partners, Deftones are able to convey a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The song's themes of emotional connection and the desire to see past surface-level facades continue to resonate with listeners today, making "Mascara" a standout track in Deftones' impressive discography.