There’s a song from a little-known musical that I think about every time I see someone learning to finally say: enough.
Alice by Heart is one of my all-time favorite musicals, and “I Shrunk Enough” makes me tear up every time I hear it.
I was lucky enough to be in this show twice: once as a pit guitarist, once as an ensemble on stage. Both times highly memorable.
In this coming-of-age story about a young woman wrestling with grief, this song portrays a pivotal moment. She makes a stand against her oppressors, reclaiming her power.
Musically, the rapid-fire, static melodies help focus your attention on the profound lyrics. And as a guitarist I accompanied this anthem by sticking to simple power chords — the most direct and confrontational of all harmonies.
If you are in a place where you need to gather your courage and make a stand, let this song be your companion.