“The Challenge” is a new english song by Jorge Rivera-Herrans. The song is written, produced, and released on Jorge Rivera-Herrans YouTube channel. It is part of the album EPIC: The Ithaca Saga (Official Concept Album), released on December 24, 2024. This concept-driven track offers a dramatic and narrative experience, embodying themes of perseverance, love, and cunning strategy.
The song delves into Penelope’s struggles as she faces the pressures of choosing a suitor while maintaining her unwavering loyalty to Odysseus. The lyrics explore her clever deception, hope, and resolve as she waits for her husband to return. The song captures an emotional journey filled with tension, strength, and the lengths one will go to protect love and dignity, tied deeply to the mythological context of Homer’s Odyssey.
The Challenge Details
| Song | The Challenge |
|---|---|
| Album | EPIC: The Ithaca Saga (Official Concept Album) |
| Artists | Jorge Rivera-Herrans |
| Written By | Jorge Rivera-Herrans |
| Label | Jorge Rivera-Herrans |
| Language | English |
| Released Date | Dec 24, 2024 |
The Challenge Lyrics
[PENELOPE]
I’m supposed to choose a suitor to wear the crown
I said I would choose as soon as I weave this shroud
They don’t know that every night
I unthread all the work I’ve done
‘Cause I’d rather lie
Than allow them to think they’ve won
Though I never thought that I’d resort to this
Just know I’ll be here
But I don’t know how much longer I’ll last
Since we saw that storm
And though it was so close to our kingdom
It was far from the norm
[PENELOPE, spoken]
Unless
[PENELOPE]
Oh, could it be some kind of sign
That my world is all about to change?
Is it finally time for the challenge I arranged?
Though I never thought that it would come to this
Just know I’ll be here, buying you time
[SUITORS]
Time is fleeting, it’s running out
Time to be the man of the house
[PENELOPE]
Oh, buying you time
[SUITORS]
Time is fleeting, it’s running out
Time to be the man of the house
[PENELOPE]
Whoever can string my husband’s old bow
And shoot through twelve axes cleanly
Will be the new king, sit down at the throne
And rule with me as his queen
Let the arrow fly
Once you know that your aim is true
‘Cause I’d rather die
Than grow old without the best of you
Though I never thought
That these would be the lengths we go for love
I would not have it any other way
And though I never thought that it would end like this
Just know I’ll be here
Waiting, waiting
[SUITORS]
Penelope
[PENELOPE]
Waiting, waiting
[SUITORS]
Penelope
[PENELOPE]
Waiting, waiting
Oh
The Challenge Meaning
[PENELOPE]
In this section, Penelope expresses her defiance and ingenuity as she delays choosing a suitor by unweaving her shroud at night. Her actions highlight her resourcefulness and her loyalty to Odysseus, showcasing her determination to outwit the suitors. The storm she mentions serves as a metaphor for chaos and uncertainty, suggesting that she holds on to hope despite the challenges surrounding her.
[PENELOPE, spoken]
This brief interlude reveals Penelope’s moment of realization, where she begins to see the storm as a possible sign of change. It hints at her belief in fate or divine intervention, setting the stage for the challenge she is about to propose.
[PENELOPE]
Penelope contemplates the challenge she has arranged to test the suitors. Her tone reflects a mix of resignation and hope, as she resolves to use this contest as a means to buy time for Odysseus’s return. This section underscores her strategic mind and unwavering faith in her husband.
[SUITORS]
The suitors express their impatience and eagerness to take control of the kingdom. Their repeated insistence on “time” contrasts sharply with Penelope’s perspective, emphasizing the tension between her and the suitors as they vie for dominance.
[PENELOPE]
In this section, Penelope introduces the challenge: stringing Odysseus’s bow and shooting through twelve axes. Her description reflects her confidence in Odysseus’s unparalleled skill, and her refusal to settle for anyone less capable symbolizes her deep respect and love for him.
[SUITORS]
The suitors echo their impatience, heightening the urgency of the situation. Their perspective reinforces the societal pressure Penelope faces as they push her to make a decision.
[PENELOPE]
Penelope concludes by reaffirming her love and loyalty to Odysseus. She reflects on the sacrifices she has made and the emotional toll of waiting, but her words also reveal her resilience and the strength of her devotion. This section ties the song’s narrative together, emphasizing the enduring power of love and hope.
The Challenge Official Video
EPIC: The Ithaca Saga (Official Concept Album) Songs
FAQs
The "The Challenge" song is sung by Jorge Rivera-Herrans.
The "The Challenge" song by Jorge Rivera-Herrans lyrics was written by Jorge Rivera-Herrans.
Jorge Rivera-Herrans released "The Challenge" song on Dec 24, 2024.
