Everyday Grammar - VOA Learning English Breaking the Rules with Miley Cyrus’ ‘Flowers’ - February 27, 2024
Feb 27, 2024
A lively look at a pop hit and the informal language choices that make it sound conversational. Short clips of opening lyrics set the scene. The discussion highlights reflexive pronoun use and a deliberate rule break for musical effect. There is also a note on using own to clarify self-directed actions.
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When Singers Prioritize Rhythm Over Grammar
- Miley Cyrus uses informal spoken forms in Flowers while mostly following grammar rules for clarity.
- Examples include kinda and wanna for conversational tone and deliberate choice of me to match the song's beat.
Accept Informal Speech In Song Lyrics
- Expect informal spoken English in songs; contractions and colloquial forms make lyrics feel conversational.
- Jill Robbins points out kinda and wanna mirror everyday speech and are acceptable in musical contexts.
Breakup Story Sets Conversational Tone
- The song opens with a breakup story using conversational lines like We were gone, kind of dream that can't be so.
- Jill Robbins transcribes and highlights the informal first verses to illustrate everyday language in lyrics.