Perfect
Hedley
The Struggle for Acceptance in Hedley's 'Perfect'
Hedley's song 'Perfect' delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the struggle for acceptance and the fear of loneliness. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and self-awareness, as the narrator acknowledges their imperfections while striving to maintain a connection with their partner. The opening lines, 'Falling a thousand feet per second / You still take me by surprise,' set the tone for the emotional turbulence that follows. The narrator is caught in a whirlwind of emotions, yet they find solace in the belief that their relationship is not over, as evidenced by the line, 'I just know we can't be over / I can see it in your eyes.'
The recurring theme of imperfection is central to the song, with the narrator repeatedly admitting, 'I'm not perfect / But I keep trying.' This admission is coupled with a plea for understanding and companionship, as the narrator confesses, 'I'm not alive if I'm lonely / So please don't leave.' The song explores the idea that relationships require effort and perseverance, even in the face of personal flaws and misunderstandings. The line, 'It's worse to finish than to start all over / And never let it lie,' suggests that the narrator believes in the value of working through difficulties rather than giving up.
The song also touches on the pain of being misunderstood and the internal conflict that arises from it. The lines, 'When you're caught in a lie / And you've got nothing to hide / When you've got nowhere to run / And you've got nothing inside,' reflect the narrator's sense of being exposed and vulnerable. This vulnerability is further emphasized by the repeated question, 'Was it something I said / Or just my personality,' highlighting the narrator's uncertainty about the root cause of their relationship issues. Ultimately, 'Perfect' is a poignant exploration of the human desire for connection and the challenges of navigating relationships while grappling with one's own imperfections.