1- Textual analysis of 'Papa don't preach'

Papa don't preach was an iconic video created for Madonna in 1986. Madonna's videos pushed for independence and individuality of both genders, which was revolutionary for people of the time and currently.



Firstly, the lyrics in the song present emotions of a young adult being thrown into the complications of motherhood but also the changing in independence. It represents the freedom that comes with growing up as well as the difficult choices that are made. The lyrics represent feelings of uncertainty, which could also relate to the quick paced editing. The video and words could present the difficulty of growing up and she is using her forum to put forward the idea of independence in young people and to not always listen to someone else if its your happiness that depends on it. "may be young at heart but I know what I'm saying".

Secondly, the use of editing is very interesting in this music video. They decided to use quick cuts and a fast paced montage, The violins are used to create tempo between the sharply cut scenes. Flashes of different locations and people are used to represent the place and time but also different conventions in terms of lifestyle for people of the era. The tempo of the music and editing could represent the free will of unconditional young love portrayed in the form of Madonna. The montage of clips and locations represents a passing of time and how the relationships presented in the video developed and changed during the process of experiencing everything for the first time from being a young child to the independence of being a young adult.

Madonnas' image is crucial to her career. From when she first began in the music industry her performance and stage presence was a huge part of the deal for her. Her pixie cut styled blonde hair and dramatic make up became an iconic look for her. As a singer she's very versatile, she influences so many people in so many different ways with her constant defiance of categorisation. Her choice in clothing and controversial music subject matter continued to empower women and contribute towards leading equality in the right direction. Also in this music video they decided to employ an incredibly well known actor of the time, Danny Aiello creating intertextuality which encourages people of different audiences to watch the video.

The camera work used in this video is varied through out. They decided to use close ups of Madonna to present her beauty and iconic looks to attract attention from viewers everywhere. Maybe they decided to use her feminine looks to allure audiences?