Song meaning of You'll See by Original Broadway Cast of Rent (Ft. Adam Pascal, Anthony Rapp & Taye Diggs)

"You'll See" from the Original Broadway Cast of Rent is a pivotal song in the musical that delves into themes of gentrification, loyalty, and the struggle between pursuing dreams and maintaining integrity. The song revolves around Benny, a character who has transitioned from being a struggling artist to a successful businessman, now seeking to evict his former friends and tenants from their home in order to build a cyber-studio. The lyrics showcase the tension between Benny's ambition and the ideals he once held dear, as well as the conflicting emotions of the other characters who are faced with compromising their values for financial gain.

The opening lines set the tone for the song, with Benny confronting his former friends and tenants, urging them to make a deal in exchange for free rent at the new cyber-studio. This sets off a debate among the characters, with Roger questioning what happened to Benny's heart and ideals, while Mark expresses disbelief at Benny's betrayal. The lyrics highlight the clash between Benny's business interests and the personal relationships he once had with the other characters.

Benny's offer to waive the rent in exchange for convincing Maureen to cancel her protest against the eviction encapsulates the central conflict of the song. The characters grapple with the choice between holding onto their principles or succumbing to the allure of financial stability and success. The repeated refrain of "You'll see boys" serves as a reminder of the potential benefits of accepting Benny's offer, while also hinting at the consequences of compromising their values.

The song also touches on themes of community and support, with Angel suggesting a detour to a life support group for those coping with life's challenges. This moment of camaraderie amidst the turmoil reflects the characters' resilience and determination to navigate the complexities of their relationships and aspirations.

In conclusion, "You'll See" is a poignant exploration of the conflicts that arise when personal ambitions clash with loyalty and integrity. The lyrics convey the internal struggles of the characters as they grapple with difficult choices, ultimately highlighting the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of friendship in the face of adversity.