Ashman's lyrics in particular had an ability to hint at an entire universe with rather direct simplicity. Belle's closing statement of "I want so much more than they've got planned" in the film's spryly ambitious and classical-leaning opening number immediately turned her into a generational heroine by establishing her steadfastness and independence. If Ariel of 1989's "The Little Mermaid" was reckless in her acts of rebellion, Belle was more reasoned and determined in her ambitions.

Source: Los Angeles Times May 27, 2018 22:41 UTC