Pretty Girl

Clairo's 'Pretty Girl' is a song that delves into the themes of identity and the pressures of conforming to societal expectations of femininity. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who is willing to change themselves, perhaps superficially, to be accepted or loved by another person. The opening lines set a nostalgic tone, with the mention of a Polaroid capturing a moment of dance and freedom. However, this memory is tinged with a sense of loss, as the protagonist reflects on the difficulty of understanding the past relationship and their own feelings.

The chorus of 'I could be a pretty girl' is repeated throughout the song, each time followed by a different way in which the singer could conform to traditional gender roles ('I'll wear a skirt for you', 'Shut up when you want me to'). These lines highlight the societal pressure on women to look and act a certain way to be considered attractive or worthy of attention. The song's bridge, however, reveals a shift in perspective. The singer acknowledges the pain caused by trying to fit into these expectations and decides to embrace their own individuality, rejecting the negativity that comes with conforming.

Clairo's musical style, often categorized as bedroom pop, is characterized by its lo-fi aesthetic and introspective lyrics. 'Pretty Girl' exemplifies this with its simple melody and candid exploration of personal themes. The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the struggle of balancing self-expression with the desire to be accepted by others, making it a poignant commentary on the complexities of modern femininity.