Broken Mirror, released on October 8th of this year, is already making rounds on the internet. This song was composed by Elderbrook, who is known for stimulating conversations with his music. True to this claim, the cinematic track has attracted people’s attention, especially from the LGBTQ+ community, because it highlights the struggle of queer people in our society.
The music video, directed by Jordan Rossi (he/him) in collaboration with multi-disciplinary artist Darkwah (they/them), received over a hundred thousand views on YouTube in less than a week. It depicts a day in the life of a Queer performer, played by Darkwah, as they navigate through real-life issues such as threats to personal safety and mental health.
As shown in the video, some of the aggression and microaggressions that LGBTQ+ have to go through include a homophobic mob beating them up to someone touching their hair without permission. Unfortunately, this does not happen just outside the community but inside the group done by the same people who identify themselves as LGBTQ+. Hence, adding to the challenges they have yet to overcome.
In most societies, gays are regarded as a source of entertainment and are not taken seriously. Some people view them as if they’re public property that anyone can touch or photograph. Worst of all, members of the community experience deprivation of necessities such as transportation and accommodation. Even in today’s society, these acts are rampant and seen as acceptable behavior towards the LGBTQ+.
The world is changing, and with it comes the need to extensively push for equal rights and an end to discrimination for Queer people. They are human beings, and they, like heterosexuals, are entitled to the same privileges. They have complete freedom in choosing who they want and who they want to be.
Darkwah
Eldebrook’s title ‘Broken Mirror’ alludes to the subject’s different versions of himself but fails to find the best one. It is a desire to be various persons at once, as well as a quest for self-discovery. Being a member of the LGBTQI+ community is not limited to being gay — it can vary depending on the situation or the individual’s mood. Watch the video closely, and you will see Darkwah’s displays of happiness, pain, and discomfort that ultimately show the character’s strength.
In the spoken-word sequence of the track, Darkwah said that all they want is to be themselves without having someone to tell them what to do or where to move. It doesn’t help to show support, and that as soon as they become their true selves, people tell them to return to their box. The speech evokes a strong sense of inner purpose and dignity, giving hope to individuals who are still afraid to embrace their true identities.
According to Elderbrook, he admired Jordan’s treatment of the song’s meaning. He loved how Jordan deeply connected with the music and how he transformed it into his own. Even though his experiences are diverse, it demonstrates that the message of this song transcends the experiences of various stories in unique ways.
The fight for freedom continues, as there is still a global division on homosexuality, but tolerance has improved in the last two decades. Although the LGBTQ+ community has been more vocal and has received more support than ever, there are still cases of physical and mental abuse related to homophobia. Thus, there is still a lot to be done in areas of acceptance and boundaries. Broken Mirror is just one of the many milestones on the road to triumph. Hopefully, this work of art will not only spark a discussion but also catalyze change.
