The Real Meaning Behind Daniel Ingram’s “This Day Aria” (2024)

Deborah Ishola-Salawu, BSc

·

Follow

23 min read

·

Oct 1, 2023

--

Queen Chrysalis and Princess Cadence sure know how to break the third wall, huh?

Song by Daniel Ingram

Find the original here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkTPatXRyh0&pp=ygUNdGhpcyBkYXkgYXJpYQ%3D%3D

Instrumental by MandoPony here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wh_UCCEg20Q

Lyrics were taken from here: https://genius.com/Queen-chrysalis-and-princess-cadance-this-day-aria-lyrics

In season 2 episode 26 of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, there is one song that particularly gave me—and hopefully, all of you as well—chills, if not goosebumps. That song, sung by the two (yes, two) characters that Britt McKillip—who, in my opinion, deserves a raise for her good work—voiced in the song, was none other than This Day Aria by the songwriting legend himself, Daniel Ingram. Hey, say whatever the heck you want about Mr. Ingram, but that man knows how to DROP THE BEAT.

Anyway,theshow — er,article — mustgo on. Let’s jump in and treat this song like it’s a science experiment, shall we? And by that, I mean, do a lyrics analysis.

The song opens with the main villain, Queen Chrysalis. I know you think it’s Cadence, but believe me, it’s NOT. Does the real Princess Cadence have a green aura? Short answer: NO. Long answer: definitely NOT. Even longer answer: Have you even bothered to see her?

She starts the song off by singing this line:

This day is going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small
Everypony will gather ‘round
Say I look lovely in my gown
What they don’t know is that I have fooled them all

Yeah, she fooled them all… except for Twilight Sparkle. She’s over in the caves beneath Canterlot trying to get the real Princess Cadence out of there and back on land to save her big brother (siblings, am I right?) I am so enraged that Shining Armor did not believe Twilight at first (that boy was as stupid as a goldfish trying to do calculus). Please tell me that I am not the only one who wanted to smack some sense into him, or else I will feel stupid. Like, bruh, even I could smell a rat—and I was nowhere to be found in that episode!

This day is going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small

Alright, time to hit the brakes and dissect this chunk. Here, Queen Chrysalis has taken on the form of Princess Cadence, who is set to marry Shining Armor, Twilight Sparkle’s big brother. Chrysalis has infiltrated Canterlot and intends to impersonate Cadence in order to disrupt the wedding and take control of Canterlot.

As Chrysalis sings “This day is going to be perfect, the kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small,” she is expressing a mocking and sinister tone. She is pretending to be Cadence and singing these lines as if she is excited about the wedding, which is far from her true intentions. The irony lies in the fact that she is planning to ruin this “perfect day” for Princess Cadence and Shining Armor.

The lyrics of the song highlight the deceitful and manipulative nature of Queen Chrysalis as she prepares to carry out her wicked plan. The contrast between her sweet-sounding lyrics and her true intentions adds tension and drama to the storyline of the episode. Believe me, even I felt the drama. Don’t you just hate Queen Chrysalis? Like, I hate her with a passion. It’s because of her that I am trying not to listen to this.

Everypony will gather ‘round
Say I look lovely in my gown

That’s not all, folks. Chrysalis sings these lines as part of her deceptive and manipulative portrayal of Princess Cadence, whose identity she has assumed. Honestly, I am glad the real one got to the surface in time. Say what you want, but if not for Twilight’s heroism, generation 4 of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic would have ended right then and there, people. Twilight deserves a round of applause, if not, a gold medal. She did not just save her brother from marrying the wrong woman, she saved the whole dang show!

Okay, back to This Day Aria. In this moment of the song, Chrysalis, disguised as Cadence (I don’t know how hard you people expect me to push that fact on you), is describing her expectations for the upcoming wedding ceremony. The line “Everypony will gather ‘round, say I look lovely in my gown” reflects her desire for adoration and praise (SPOILER ALERT: She got yeeted from the ceremony when the real one showed up). She envisions the wedding ceremony where all the attendees will compliment her appearance, believing they are addressing the real Princess Cadence. Queen Chrysalis did not triumph for long…

What they don’t know is that I have fooled them all

The irony lies in the fact that Chrysalis is planning to use this false identity to deceive everyone, gaining their admiration while intending to disrupt the wedding and carry out her malicious intentions. The juxtaposition of the seemingly joyful and innocent lyrics with the devious actions Chrysalis plans to undertake adds to the tension and drama in the storyline of the episode. Yeah, there was no escape from the irony in that line. False identity, indeed. Honestly, if I ever made a list of villains that I hated the most, Queen Chrysalis would be NUMBER ONE on there (hello! She tried to steal Cadence’s man, people!!! Fiancee snatcher…).

And then there’s this part:

This day was going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small
But instead of having cake
With all my friends to celebrate
My wedding bells, they may not ring for me at all

Poor girl. Imagine getting replaced on your wedding day. May we not suffer what Princess Cadence suffered, in the name of Jesus. Like, honestly, the girl is suffering. How dare Shining Armor not believe Twilight! Anyone else want to punch Shining Armor right now? Okay, back to Cadence before I lose my train of thought!

Princess Cadence, one of the main characters in the series, sings this line during the song. Hey, she may be one of the main characters in the series at large, but in this episode, she was the mane event. I mean, duh, it is HER wedding that is in danger here. Thank God she made it to Shining Armor in time. I was not lying when I said that this song gave me chills, people!!!

This day was going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence expresses her genuine excitement and anticipation for her wedding day. The lyrics reflect her dreams and hopes for a perfect and magical wedding, something she has looked forward to since she was a child. It conveys her sincere desire for this special day to be everything she has imagined and more.

The sentiment behind the lyrics is one of joy, love, and the fulfillment of long-held dreams. Princess Cadence envisions her wedding day as a fairy tale come true, a day to cherish and celebrate the love she shares with Shining Armor, her groom. The use of the word “perfect” underscores her high hopes and aspirations for this significant event in her life.

The lyrics express Cadence’s long-held dreams and expectations for her wedding day. She has envisioned this moment since she was a filly (a young pony), and she believes it will be a perfect and magical day. Cadence is excited and genuinely looking forward to marrying the pony she loves.

The lyrics capture the innocence, hope, and joy of a bride on her wedding day. The song, in general, sets a contrast between Cadence’s genuine love and anticipation for her wedding and the deception of Queen Chrysalis, who is impersonating Cadence to disrupt the ceremony. Hello?! Get the contrast yet?

Overall, this line reflects Cadence’s heartfelt emotions and her belief that her wedding day will fulfill her childhood dreams of a perfect and magical celebration of love. Thank God her dreams came true. Honestly, I sure was glad Twilight was not deceived. If not for Twilight… let me not say it.

But instead of having cake
With all my friends to celebrate

In this part of the song, Princess Cadance is expressing her disappointment and confusion. She had envisioned a joyful celebration with her friends, marked by sharing cake and happiness. However, the reality has taken a dark turn, as the imposter Queen Chrysalis has disrupted the wedding plans and is impersonating Cadence.

The contrast between Cadence’s expectations and the unexpected turn of events adds to the emotional depth of the scene. The line captures her genuine desire for a happy celebration surrounded by her loved ones, contrasting with the sinister plot that has unfolded, where Chrysalis is impersonating her to deceive both her friends and Shining Armor, her groom.

The lyrics highlight Cadence’s innocence and the stark contrast between her dreams and the harsh reality she is facing at that moment, which further intensifies the dramatic tension in the episode. Tension, indeed! Like, bruh, the tension in this song is thicker than a forest fire’s smoke. Honestly, I am just glad the episode ends on a good note for Cadence. Again, may we ladies never suffer the same thing Cadence did, in the name of Jesus.

My wedding bells, they may not ring for me at all

SPOILER ALERT: they do.

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence expresses her doubt and fear that her dream wedding may not come to fruition. She had envisioned her wedding day as a joyous occasion with the ringing of wedding bells, symbolizing the celebration of love and union. However, due to the devious actions of Queen Chrysalis, who has disguised herself as Cadence, Cadence is uncertain if she will ever have the opportunity to experience this dream.

The lyrics convey Cadence’s worry and distress as she grapples with the possibility that her dream wedding, with the happiness and love she had imagined, might be shattered due to the imposter’s actions. This emotional turmoil adds depth and complexity to the storyline, further highlighting the contrast between Cadence’s genuine hopes and the deceptive plot unfolding in the episode. No wonder she cries later on in the song! Honestly, losing your dream guy to an imposter is an experience no girl wants to go through.

Overall, this line reflects Cadence’s vulnerability and the emotional turmoil she experiences as she faces the possibility that her dream wedding may be compromised by Chrysalis’s deceitful actions. Anybody just want to give Princess Cadence a hug right now? She needs a hug badly. Thank God Almighty she and Twilight come out on top. The chills were real!

The imposter is back, people!

I could care less about the dress
I won’t partake in any cake
Vows, well I’ll be lying when I say
“That through any kind of weather
I’ll want us to be together”
The truth is I don’t care for him at all

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, reveals her true intentions and feelings. Through these lyrics, she conveys her indifference towards the elements that typically make a wedding day special and joyous, such as the wedding dress and the celebration with cake. Bruh… the difference could not be any clearer! Who else wants to punch Queen Chrysalis?! Gosh, could My Little Pony villains be any more cruel?!

I could care less about the dress
I won’t partake in any cake

By stating that she “could care less” about the dress and won’t participate in enjoying the cake, Chrysalis is emphasizing her focus on her nefarious plans rather than the traditional aspects of a wedding. This showcases her true, malicious nature and sets the stage for the revelation of her villainous plot to disrupt the wedding and take over Canterlot.

The lyrics underscore Chrysalis’s deceitful charade, highlighting the stark contrast between her pretended excitement for the wedding earlier in the song and her actual disregard for the joyous customs associated with it. This contrast intensifies the tension and drama of the storyline, revealing her true motives and adding depth to her character as a cunning and manipulative antagonist. Honestly, someone give Queen Chrysalis a freaking Oscar for this performance!

Vows, well I’ll be lying when I say
“That through any kind of weather
I’ll want us to be together”

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, reveals her deceitful nature regarding the wedding vows. She expresses that when it comes to taking vows, she will be lying, pretending to commit to being together with her groom through any situation or challenge, regardless of the weather.

The line showcases Chrysalis’s willingness to deceive and manipulate for her own gain, reinforcing her true intentions to disrupt the wedding and seize power. The lyrics underline the dramatic irony, where the audience knows that the words being sung are insincere, amplifying the tension and conflict in the storyline.

This moment in the song emphasizes Chrysalis’s cunning nature and her ability to present a false facade convincingly. It adds depth to her character as the antagonist of the episode and contributes to the overall narrative by highlighting the duality between appearance and reality. Duality is never good, people! I mean, lying about WEDDING VOWS?! Is that not enough to make you people want to send Queen Chrysalis to the gallows?!

I hope Shining Armor heard that part!

The truth is I don’t care for him at all

OF COURSE, SHE DOESN’T!!!! Honestly, Shining Armor better run for his dang life at this point! Guys, and yes, I am SPEAKING TO ALL OF YOU RIGHT NOW, if you are getting married and the bride doesn’t care about you, cancel the wedding and run for your freaking lives!!! Marriage without love and commitment is a dumpster fire waiting to happen, people! I am serious, if the lady that you are about to marry does not care about you, ditch her at the altar and RUN FOR YOUR FREAKING LIVES!!! You will thank me later!

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, reveals her true feelings about Shining Armor, the pony she is set to marry in the song’s narrative. She confesses that she doesn’t care for him and is using the wedding as a means to further her sinister agenda.

Regarding the scene with the mannequin and the green hat, it’s important to note that this is a visual representation of Chrysalis’s deception. The mannequin and the green hat symbolize her manipulation and the illusion she has created. The mannequin represents the fake identity she is presenting, and the hat is a prop that accentuates her performance as she sings about her “love” for Shining Armor. Don’t you even dare think of dodging those air quotes! Fake ‘it until you make it only works for so long, people.

Chrysalis disintegrates the green hat and stomps on it to emphasize the destruction of the false persona. This action visually underscores her deception and lack of genuine care for Shining Armor. It’s a powerful metaphor that aligns with the lyrics she sings, further highlighting the stark contrast between her pretense and her true intentions. I KNEW SHE WAS THE FAKER!!!! Hey!!! Run, Shining Armor, run!!!

Overall, these visual elements in the scene complement the song’s narrative by showcasing the depth of Queen Chrysalis’s deception and the extent to which she is willing to go to achieve her malevolent goals. Honestly, she is worse than Maleficent herself—and that’s saying something!

Shining Armor, you better start running, dude…

No I do not love the groom
In my heart there is no room
But I still want him to be all mine

Need I say anything more? Chrysalis is the faker and Cadence is the real deal, ENOUGH SAID. The song is practically proving me right here!

The real Cadence says:

For I oh so love the groom
All my thoughts he does consume
Oh, Shining Armor, I’ll be there very soon

Chrysalis says:

No I do not love the groom
In my heart there is no room
But I still want him to be all mine

In the words of Avril Lavigne in her song Skater Boi, “can I be any more obvious?” Honestly, she and I are both saying the same thing here. Chrysalis doesn’t love Shining Armor, but Cadence does. It’s black and white, people. Black and white, night and day, hot and cold, you get the idea.

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, admits her lack of genuine affection for Shining Armor, the groom, and exposes her true intentions to control and manipulate him. The lyrics reveal her deceitful plan to make Shining Armor hers despite her lack of love for him. Honestly, Chrysalis is so mean she puts the Evil Queen from Snow White to shame. The real Cadence would never do this.

The actions accompanying the line, such as putting her hand on her heart and raising both hands, serve to emphasize the contrast between her deceptive words and her true feelings. Placing her hand on her heart is a visual gesture suggesting affection or sincerity, reinforcing the appearance of love she is trying to portray. Raising both hands could be seen as a dramatic expression, highlighting her conviction in the performance she is putting on. She ruined our Pledge of Allegiance, people!! Can you imagine the blasphemy?!

Looking at herself in the mirror at the end of the line can be interpreted as a reflection of her own deception. It signifies her acknowledgment of the facade she’s presenting and the satisfaction she derives from successfully deceiving others. The mirror symbolizes self-reflection and perhaps her twisted sense of satisfaction in her manipulative abilities. Honestly, Chrysalis should be behind bars right now. What? I hate her, don’t you?

Overall, these actions and the visual elements in this scene enhance the character development, highlighting Queen Chrysalis’s duplicity, manipulation, and the depth of her villainous intent. Honestly, I hope Chrysalis joins Judas and the Pharisees in Hades. I told you this was going to be unbridled, didn’t I?

Oh, poop. Things don’t look so hot for Princess Cadence…

We must escape before it’s too late
Find a way to save the day
Hope, I’ll be lying if I say
“I don’t fear that I may lose him
To one who wants to use him
Not care for, love, and cherish him each day”

Can you smell the urgency? I can smell the urgency. Onward, and with haste!

We must escape before it’s too late
Find a way to save the day

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence realizes the dire situation she’s in, being imprisoned by Queen Chrysalis, the villain who has taken her place at the wedding. The lyrics express her urgency to escape and save the day by revealing the imposter’s true identity and intentions.

The animation accompanying this line, where Cadence is seen running, visually reinforces her determination and urgency to escape and take action. Running symbolizes her active effort to address the crisis at hand, underscoring the urgency conveyed in the lyrics. Do you not see the fear in her eyes?! Honestly, losing one’s dream spouse to an imposter is a fate worse than a labyrinth with no exit, people! Run, Cadence and Twilight, run!!!

When Cadence and Twilight Sparkle look at each other in the eye before continuing to run, it’s a moment of mutual understanding and acknowledgment of the severity of the situation. Their eye contact signifies their connection and unity in facing the challenge ahead. They share a unspoken understanding that they need to work together to save the day and expose the imposter. It’s a non-verbal communication of resolve, trust, and determination to confront the threat and find a way to thwart Chrysalis’s plans. With haste, ladies!!! Oh, Lord Jesus, help them. When you start praying for fictional characters, that’s how you KNOW the stakes are as high as a soaring eagle in the sky!

Overall, these visual and non-verbal cues enhance the storytelling and character dynamics, showcasing the urgency and determination of the characters to overcome the unfolding crisis and bring about a resolution to the conflict. Shining Armor is in DANGER, people!!!

Hope, I’ll be lying if I say
“I don’t fear that I may lose him
To one who wants to use him

Ohhhh… I can’t bear to think of the turmoil Cadence is enduring right now. Honestly, Canterlot needs better security ASAP. She is so scared of losing Twilight’s big brother that her eyes almost pop out! Aren’t you glad she made it out in time? If not, you need Jesus Christ Himself to save your wicked and heartless soul. I will pull no punches in this article, so DEAL WITH IT.

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence expresses her concerns and fears about losing Shining Armor, her love AND FIANCE, to the imposter, Queen Chrysalis, who is attempting to deceive everyone and take advantage of him for her malicious intentions. Honestly, no wonder the music picks up during this part. Like I said before, losing one’s dream spouse to an imposter is a fate worse than a labyrinth with no exit.

The animation accompanying this line, where Cadence’s eyes bulge as she runs, is a visual representation of her emotional distress and worry. It emphasizes her intense fear and anxiety about the possibility of losing Shining Armor, which aligns with the lyrics she is singing. Distress and worry?! Hey… this poor girl.

Twilight gasping during this part signifies her reaction to Cadence’s distress and the gravity of the situation. It reflects her understanding of Cadence’s genuine fear and reinforces the urgency and tension of the scene. Hey, even Twilight understands. I mean, I don’t blame her. It’s her big brother that they’re talking about here!!

The blurring of the background is an artistic choice to enhance the focus on the characters and their emotions. It creates a dynamic and visually engaging effect, drawing attention to the urgency and anxiety felt by Cadence and Twilight as they race against time to resolve the crisis. Race against time, indeed. I can just hear the clock ticking in the background! Hey-eh!!!

Overall, these visual and auditory cues, such as the bulging eyes, gasping, and background blurring, contribute to the emotional intensity of the scene, conveying the heightened anxiety and fear the characters are experiencing in this critical moment of the episode.

Not care for, love, and cherish him each day…

Awww, Princess Cadence!!! What a touching moment in the song! How much do you want to bet that this line was one of her wedding vows? Ladies, if any of you are getting married, add this line to your vows NOW. You will thank me later! Okay, back to the show… er, article.

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence is expressing her genuine feelings for Shining Armor, countering the false claims made by Queen Chrysalis, who is disguised as Cadence to deceive everyone.

Regarding the animation, when Cadence runs ahead while Twilight stops, it symbolizes Cadence’s determination and urgency to confront the imposter and clarify the truth. She is driven to rectify the deception and protect her love, Shining Armor, from being misled by Chrysalis.

Twilight’s surprise when Cadence goes to the cart reflects her realization that something is off. She senses the discrepancy between the real Cadence’s actions and the behavior displayed by the imposter. This surprise marks a critical moment in the plot, hinting at the unfolding deception and building the tension in the storyline. Even TWILIGHT knows something’s wrong! You and me both, Sparkle!

Overall, the animation and character reactions are used to convey the urgency and tension of the situation, emphasizing Cadence’s resolve to reveal the truth and Twilight’s growing suspicion about the imposter. These elements enhance the storytelling and heighten the drama in the episode.

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence continues to express her concerns about the possibility of losing Shining Armor to Queen Chrysalis, the imposter. The lyrics reveal her fear that Chrysalis won’t truly care for, love, and cherish Shining Armor as she does. Hello?! It’s BLACK AND WHITE, people!!! Honestly, the writers of the show could NOT have possibly, in their wildest dreams, come up with two better foils than Queen Chrysalis and Princess Cadence. Whoever had the brilliant idea to put this part in the song needs a freaking raise!

The animation accompanying this line, where Cadence runs ahead while Twilight stops, visually reinforces Cadence’s sense of urgency and determination. Cadence is driven by her love for Shining Armor and the fear of losing him, motivating her to take immediate action.

Twilight’s surprised and questioning expression when Cadence goes to the cart is a reaction to Cadence’s sudden departure. It reflects her surprise at Cadence’s swift decision and movement, especially given the dire circumstances. Twilight is likely trying to process Cadence’s actions and understand her intentions in that moment, as they are working together to uncover the truth and protect their friends. Girl, she is RIGHT THERE IN FRONT OF YOU. Hurry up and save your big brother, woman!

Overall, these visual cues and character expressions contribute to the storytelling by illustrating the urgency and emotions of the characters in this critical juncture of the episode. Never have those two words been so potent. I am just hoping that Queen Chrysalis loses… Are you on the edges of your seats like I am?

For I oh so love the groom
All my thoughts he does consume
Oh, Shining Armor, I’ll be there very soon

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence sings passionately about her love for Shining Armor, her groom. The lyrics reveal her deep affection for him and her eagerness to be with him, highlighting the genuine love between them.

Cadence’s attempt to push the cart is an act of desperation. She is imprisoned and needs to escape to stop Queen Chrysalis’s sinister plan from proceeding. Her determination to reach Shining Armor drives her to take action.

Cadence crying during these lines could be a combination of intense emotions. She may be crying out of love for Shining Armor and distress over the situation. These tears reflect her vulnerability and the emotional turmoil she’s experiencing.

Twilight’s eyes widening in joy at Cadence’s confession signifies her happiness and relief upon hearing Cadence’s genuine feelings. Twilight has been concerned about the strange behavior of the Cadence imposter (Queen Chrysalis) throughout the episode. Discovering that Cadence truly loves Shining Armor is a significant moment, as it confirms her suspicions and restores her faith in her friend. Faith in friends, what a necessary thing. NOW GET A MOVE ON, LADIES!!!

Twilight using her levitation magic on the rocks and Cadence is an action taken to assist Cadence’s escape. It shows Twilight’s determination to help her friend and stop Chrysalis’s plan. Teamwork really does make the dream work.

Twilight’s shock upon seeing Cadence fly and realizing she is an Alicorn with wings is likely due to the revelation that Cadence possesses special abilities she hadn’t previously displayed. This surprise adds to the intrigue and mystery of the situation, as Cadence’s true nature and powers have been hidden by Chrysalis’s deception. Twilight Sparkle, where in Equestria have you been?! The fact that she’s just now realizing that Cadence can fly is shocking to me.

Overall, these visual and emotional elements contribute to the dramatic tension and character development in the episode, highlighting the strength of Cadence and Twilight’s friendship and their determination to thwart the threat posed by Queen Chrysalis.

Queen Chrysalis, you again? Have you not ruined Cadence’s wedding enough?! Gosh, I hate her!

Finally the moment has arrived
For me to be one lucky bride

Does Shining Armor know that he’s about to marry the wrong woman?! Ohhh… where are Twilight and Princess Cadence? Shame on you, Cutie Mark Crusaders! I swear, Queen Chrysalis really did fool them all. And where is Equestria is Princess Luna?! The woman practically ghosted us all in season 2.

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, is portraying excitement and anticipation as she approaches the altar to marry Shining Armor. The lyrics are designed to maintain the illusion and further her deceitful plot.

Chrysalis does walk down the aisle towards Shining Armor, maintaining the guise of Princess Cadence. The wedding ceremony is a crucial part of her plan, as once she is married to Shining Armor, she gains control over him and can use his magical abilities to invade Canterlot.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders, who are serving as flower fillies during the wedding, don’t realize Chrysalis’s true identity at this point in the episode. They are innocent and unaware of the deception, so they proceed with their flower girl duties as they believe they should. They are not privy to the ongoing conflict and the imminent threat posed by Chrysalis. The deception is orchestrated so well that even the most perceptive characters are initially fooled by the imposter, adding to the tension and drama of the storyline.

Oh, there they are. Wait… THEY ARE STILL IN THE CAVES?! Oh, this cannot possibly be good…

Oh, the wedding we won’t make
He’ll end up marrying a fake
Shining Armor will be…

In this part of the song, Princess Cadence sings of her worry and realization that they won’t make it to the wedding in time to prevent Shining Armor from marrying the imposter (Queen Chrysalis disguised as Cadence). The lyrics express her distress at the unfolding situation.

Twilight and Cadence are still in the caves because they are trying to escape and reach Canterlot to stop the imposter from marrying Shining Armor. They are racing against time to unveil the deception and prevent the wedding from happening.

Twilight approaching Cadence as the light dawns on her signifies the moment of realization and discovery. As the truth begins to unfold and the situation becomes clear to Twilight, she approaches Cadence with a newfound understanding of the deception at play.

Cadence crying during the line “Shining Armor will be…” reflects her emotional distress and heartache over the imminent threat of Shining Armor marrying the imposter. The tears represent her vulnerability and sadness at the prospect of losing Shining Armor to the deceitful Chrysalis. Poor girl… her heart is breaking. Has all hope been lost for these two?!

At this point in the episode, Shining Armor is under Queen Chrysalis’s mind control, unbeknownst to him and everyone else. Chrysalis’s manipulation has clouded his judgment and perception, making him unable to see through her disguise and realize the danger he is in. Shining Armor needs Jesus, people.

These lines capture the intense emotional and dramatic build-up in the episode, showcasing the impending crisis and the urgency of the characters to stop the imposter and save Shining Armor from a terrible fate. The episode’s tension escalates as the truth begins to unravel, setting the stage for the climactic resolution of the storyline. Crisis indeed. I mean, Shining Armor is about to marry the imposter! Twilight freaking Sparkle, it is BIG BRAIN TIME.

Does Chrysalis EVER SHUT HER STINKING MOUTH?!

…mine, all mine

Honestly, I myself am about to jump into the episode and beat the snot out of Queen Chrysalis. And it is for the following three reasons:

  1. She’s emotionally manipulating and gaslighting Shining Armor. Like, bruh, who even DOES that? Twilight Velvet, if you really love your son, DO SOMETHING. Honestly, people, NEVER IN YOUR LIVES let your children marry people who will abuse them and gaslight them—they may end up hating you for it. Don’t look at me, people, it’s in Matthew 10:14.
  2. She doesn’t even care about the wedding at large. This woman just got all dolled up in vain. Wow! Do you see why I hate Queen Chrysalis so much?! The rings, the cake, the very dress that she wears… no concern. Honestly, I understand Cadence’s distress.
  3. She is the worst villain in the history of villains. Yeah, Maleficent and Jeanne de la Motte have nothing on Chrysalis. Emotional manipulation, impersonation of someone’s fiancee, attempted gaslighting… it doesn’t get any meaner than that—and that is saying something.

In this part of the song, Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Princess Cadence, sings with a malevolent tone. The lyrics “mine, all mine” reveal her sinister desire to possess and control Shining Armor for her own wicked purposes. The repetition emphasizes her gloating and the sense of triumph she feels in her deceptive plan.

The background fading to black as she passes by Shining Armor underscores the shift in focus and intensifies the scene, emphasizing Chrysalis’s takeover and control of the situation. It also creates a dramatic effect, drawing attention to the imminent threat that she poses. Hello, she is ruining Cadence’s wedding!!! Victory for the protagonist, in this case, the real bride, never tasted so delicious…

Shining Armor looking at her could be attributed to his genuine belief that she is Princess Cadence, his betrothed. He is under her manipulative spell and does not realize the deception, which explains his engagement with her. Shining Armor, are you crazy or something?! THAT’S NOT CADENCE!!! Honestly, somebody do something!

Chrysalis taking over the screen emphasizes her dominating presence and her successful manipulation of the situation. It showcases her in her true form, dropping the disguise momentarily to assert her power and triumph.

Her laugh at the end further emphasizes her malevolence and the pleasure she takes in deceiving and controlling Shining Armor. It conveys her confidence and delight in successfully carrying out her deceitful plan. The laughter adds to the tension and highlights Chrysalis’s wickedness as the main antagonist of the episode.

And that is all I have to say about this masterpiece that Daniel Ingram claims as a song. This man took Neil Diamond to school with This Day Aria! Honestly, shame on you if you’ve never heard it before. Don’t you just hate Queen Chrysalis? I know I do.

MAJOR SPOILER ALERT: Twilight and Cadence make it out of the caves and to the wedding in time. Cadence gets Shining Armor to snap out of it, and Queen Chrysalis and her changeling army go flying.

I hope you have enjoyed my analysis of the song. Sorry for going off at Shining Armor and Queen Chrysalis, but I told you that it was going to be unbridled. I pull no punches when it comes to My Little Pony, people.

Are you TEAM CHRYSALIS or TEAM TWILIGHT-CADENCE?

Make sure to tell me whose side YOU are onbyemailing meatsafflowerseashell851@gmail.com. Like and subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow me here on Medium for more content. I’m a very prolific writer, so be prepared.

Thank you!

MandoPony. (2012, April 26). This Day Aria — Karaoke version by MandoPony [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wh_UCCEg20Q

McKillip, B., & Ingram, D. (2012, April 21). Queen Chrysalis & Princess Cadance (Ft. Britt McKillip) — This Day Aria. Genius. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://genius.com/Queen-chrysalis-and-princess-cadance-this-day-aria-lyrics

My Little Pony Official. (2014, October 15). Friendship is Magic — “This Day Aria” Music Video [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkTPatXRyh0

The Real Meaning Behind Daniel Ingram’s “This Day Aria” (2024)

References

Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Kieth Sipes

Last Updated:

Views: 6076

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kieth Sipes

Birthday: 2001-04-14

Address: Suite 492 62479 Champlin Loop, South Catrice, MS 57271

Phone: +9663362133320

Job: District Sales Analyst

Hobby: Digital arts, Dance, Ghost hunting, Worldbuilding, Kayaking, Table tennis, 3D printing

Introduction: My name is Kieth Sipes, I am a zany, rich, courageous, powerful, faithful, jolly, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.