Why Does It Feel So Good, 'And My Apology'

Philaster

In Philaster, Arethusa presents herself with various layers regarding her emotions and actions towards being thrown into a relationship that she does not care for. I wrote three songs about her feelings towards concealing a relationship, but also admitting what she is hiding. The songs “Be Mine,” “Why Does It Feel So Good,” and “My Apology” illustrate the different plots and emotions Arethusa experiences throughout the play. In the beginning, she slowly falls in love with Philaster when he approaches her, and she agrees to have a relationship, but it is hidden from the King, her father, and Pharamond, the prince of Spain, who the King wants her to marry. Therefore, the songs I wrote illustrate the turbulence of emotions that arise from my interpretation of Arethusa thoughts when confronting Philaster and her father.

“Be Mine” (1.2)

In the song, I interpret the scene through Arethusa’s mind, which she questions how she would make the relationship work. At first, she is unsure about committing because she enjoys the ability that she could own two lands if she were to marry Pharamond. However, she realizes upon Philaster’s words, she is better off with a man, instead of a land. Therefore, Philaster makes the move for the both himself and Arethusa, to draw her attention especially when she says, “Let us leave and kiss” (1.2.104). Therefore, with Philaster’s initial approval, I direct the song against Arethusa’s plea towards keeping their relationship a secret, especially towards her father, who would be the most upset. Thus, in the bridge of the song, I establish how Arethusa and Philaster’s relationship is about breaking the rules and hoping they will be together by the