The song featured in How I Met Your Mother Season 6, Episode 19, “Legendary,” is “Supernatural Superserious” by R.E.M. Its selection is far from arbitrary. It acts as a melancholic undercurrent to Barney’s conflicted feelings about Nora, underscoring the theme of missed connections and the enduring search for genuine, lasting love, even amidst the show’s signature humor.
The Significance of “Supernatural Superserious”
“Supernatural Superserious” isn’t just background music; it’s a character in itself. Its upbeat tempo clashes with the underlying sadness of Barney’s internal struggle, creating a poignant contrast that amplifies the episode’s emotional impact. This contrast highlights the gap between Barney’s public persona – the womanizing playboy – and his yearning for a deeper connection, something “supernatural” and “superserious.” The song’s inclusion signals a pivotal moment in Barney’s character arc, hinting at the vulnerability beneath his carefully constructed façade. It’s not simply about finding someone; it’s about finding someone he can truly be himself with.
The lyrics themselves, though not directly referencing the episode’s plot, evoke a sense of longing and search. The repeated refrain of “Supernatural superserious” suggests a desire for something extraordinary, a love that transcends the superficial encounters Barney is accustomed to. The episode uses the song to tap into the universal human desire for meaningful connection, making it relatable to viewers regardless of their own romantic experiences.
Decoding the Episode: “Legendary” and its Musical Choices
“Legendary” focuses on Barney’s growing affection for Nora, a colleague of Robin’s. He’s torn between his usual fleeting relationships and the possibility of a genuine, more profound connection with Nora. The song plays during scenes where Barney is contemplating his feelings, often juxtaposed with his attempts to revert to his old ways. This creates a tension, highlighting the internal conflict that the character experiences.
The episode cleverly utilizes the song to foreshadow the future of Barney’s relationships. While it initially seems that Barney will choose his typical lifestyle, the lingering presence of “Supernatural Superserious” suggests that his journey towards finding a true love is just beginning. The song subtly implies that Barney’s transformation will be a gradual process, filled with both moments of progress and setbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “Supernatural Superserious” in HIMYM
Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further illuminate the context, impact, and relevance of “Supernatural Superserious” within the HIMYM universe:
H3: Why was “Supernatural Superserious” chosen for this specific episode?
The song’s juxtaposition of an upbeat melody with introspective lyrics perfectly mirrored Barney’s internal conflict. The producers likely chose it to underscore the show’s ability to blend humor with genuine emotional depth. It was an intentional choice designed to elevate the episode beyond a typical sitcom scenario.
H3: Does the song’s release date affect its impact on the episode?
Released in 2008, “Supernatural Superserious” was relatively recent when the episode aired in 2011. This contemporary feel likely contributed to its resonance with the show’s audience, who were likely familiar with the song. This familiarity heightened the song’s ability to quickly establish an emotional connection.
H3: How does the song compare to other musical choices in HIMYM?
HIMYM is known for its eclectic soundtrack, often using music to enhance emotional moments. “Supernatural Superserious” is similar to other choices like “Simple Song” by The Shins, in that it’s a mainstream song used to evoke a specific mood. Unlike some more obscure indie tracks, the familiarity of R.E.M. gave the song a wider emotional reach.
H3: Did R.E.M. authorize the use of their song in the show?
Yes, R.E.M., like most artists, would have had to grant permission for their song to be used in How I Met Your Mother. Licensing agreements are standard practice in the entertainment industry and ensure that artists are compensated for the use of their work.
H3: Does the song play at any other significant moments in the series?
While “Supernatural Superserious” is most prominent in “Legendary,” its thematic echoes can be seen in other moments where Barney grapples with his feelings for Robin or other potential romantic partners. It’s not directly repeated, but its emotional impact resonates throughout Barney’s character arc.
H3: What are some other notable songs featured in HIMYM that carry similar emotional weight?
Besides “Simple Song,” other songs like “Let Your Heart Hold Fast” by Fort Atlantic and “Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart have been used to great emotional effect in the series, often accompanying heartbreaking or pivotal moments in the characters’ lives.
H3: How does the song contribute to the overall narrative arc of Barney’s character?
“Supernatural Superserious” plays a crucial role in humanizing Barney. It reveals his longing for something more than just fleeting encounters, setting the stage for his eventual transformation and growth as a character. It’s a vital step in understanding Barney’s journey towards finding genuine love.
H3: Is there a soundtrack album for HIMYM featuring “Supernatural Superserious”?
While there isn’t a comprehensive official soundtrack album featuring all the music from the show, playlists of HIMYM songs are readily available on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. These playlists often include “Supernatural Superserious.”
H3: How did fans react to the song’s inclusion in the episode?
The song’s inclusion was generally well-received by fans. Many viewers noted how effectively it captured the bittersweet tone of the episode and amplified the emotional impact of Barney’s storyline. It solidified the show’s reputation for using music thoughtfully.
H3: Can the choice of this song be considered foreshadowing for future events in the series?
Yes, to some extent. It foreshadows Barney’s eventual commitment to finding a meaningful relationship, ultimately leading to his marriage (and subsequent divorce and reunion) with Robin. It suggests that his initial reluctance to embrace genuine connection is a battle he will eventually overcome.
H3: What are the main lyrical themes of “Supernatural Superserious” and how do they relate to the episode?
The main lyrical themes revolve around searching, longing, and the desire for something extraordinary. These themes directly relate to Barney’s search for a meaningful connection beyond superficial encounters and his longing for a relationship that transcends his usual lifestyle.
H3: How does the use of “Supernatural Superserious” compare to the show’s use of original music?
HIMYM also featured original compositions, most famously “Let’s Go to the Mall,” which were used primarily for comedic effect. “Supernatural Superserious,” in contrast, serves a more dramatic and emotionally resonant purpose. This highlights the show’s versatility in using music to achieve different narrative goals.
The Enduring Legacy of Music in HIMYM
Ultimately, the inclusion of “Supernatural Superserious” in How I Met Your Mother underscores the show’s talent for using music to deepen its characters and enhance its storytelling. It’s a prime example of how a well-chosen song can elevate a scene, amplify emotions, and leave a lasting impression on the audience. It’s a testament to the power of music to tell stories in its own right, perfectly complementing the narrative unfolding on screen. The song’s legacy remains a perfect case study of how pop culture can use music to create not just a scene, but a moment.