“I Know It’s Today” from Shrek the Musical poignantly captures Princess Fiona’s longing for love through different life stages. The lyrics showcase her unwavering belief in a fairytale ending despite years of isolation. The recurring “I know it’s today” emphasizes Fiona’s persistent hope for her prince’s arrival. Young Fiona sings with naive optimism and absolute certainty.
As a teenager, Fiona’s optimism wanes, but her core belief remains. The lyrics reflect growing impatience and frustration, yet the underlying hope persists. She still anticipates her storybook ending, but the repetition of “I know it’s today” becomes more desperate.
Adult Fiona’s desperation is palpable. Years of waiting have taken a toll. A flicker of hope remains, overshadowed by cynicism and self-doubt. The once bright phrase transforms into a weary, almost resigned statement, a plea for love and connection.
The song contrasts Fiona’s idealized expectations with reality. References to fairytale tropes—princesses, poisoned apples, princes—clash with her own story. This juxtaposition highlights the humor and pathos of her predicament: desperately wanting the fairytale despite reality’s intrusions.
Fiona’s growing impatience is evident in her urging the narrator to “skip ahead” to the happy ending. This desire for instant gratification reflects a broader theme of impatience and the struggle to accept life’s imperfections.
The song culminates in a powerful expression of longing as all three Fionas unite in their shared desire for love. The final, harmonized “I know it’s today” blends hope and resignation, acknowledging the enduring power of dreams despite disappointment. It’s a testament to hope’s resilience and resonates with audiences due to its universal theme of longing for love and belonging. Fiona’s journey reminds us that fairytales don’t always unfold as expected, but hope for a happy ending persists.