Hamming it up: Analyzing the Lyrics of "Hamilton"

"My Shot"

Cast: Alexander Hamilton, Marquis de Lafayette, Hercules Mulligan, John Laurens, Aaron Burr, Ensemble

Lyrics with Character Names: Total Words: 1,199, Words Counted Once: 418
Most common Words: "Shot" (41 times), "I'm" (29 times), "Away" (23 times)
Lyrics without Character Names: Total Words: 1,130, Words Counted Once: 413
Most Common Words: "Shot" (41 times), "I'm" (29 times), "Away" (23 times) 

One of the most famous songs, and the first Hamilton song I was introduced to, tells about Alexander Hamilton encouraging the others to join him in his attempts towards revolution as he knows being in this new world is an opportunity for him to create the legacy he so desperately desires. The audience learns that although he is terrified of death, Alexander is far more determined to "not throw away his shot" at making something of himself.

 Based on both number counts it is clear that this song repeats itself an incredible amount in an attempt to really emphasize to the audience that Alexander and even the cast as a whole are all determined to not give up their individual opportunities to be remembered by others. In the case of the common words they are the same due to the story still holding true and each character possessing more solos; thus allowing each character, especially Alexander, to get an opportunity to tell their story. This song also adds to the copious use of the word "I'm" because this is the song that kicks off the the idea of the individual making themselves known for their own legacy. "Shot" and "Away" both are a huge part to the chorus so it makes sense they are both often used. The song pushes the determination of the group to not give and keep fighting if a person is willing to do anything and fight for their views. 

Back to Coggle Hamilton character mind map: https://coggle.it/diagram/WNMHd-Ej5QAB6iqC