Starstrukk (feat. 3OH!3)

Katy Perry's collaboration with 3OH!3 on the song 'Starstrukk' delves into the complexities of superficial relationships and the struggle with genuine emotional expression. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lifestyle filled with fleeting attractions and shallow interactions, highlighted by references to physical allure such as 'Nice legs, Daisy Dukes' and 'tight jeans, double Ds.' These lines underscore the theme of being captivated by surface-level qualities, which often lead to temporary excitement rather than deep connection.

The chorus of 'Starstrukk' reveals a deeper emotional conflict. The repetition of 'I just set them up to knock them down' suggests a cycle of setting up expectations in relationships only to end them abruptly, which may reflect a defense mechanism against deeper emotional involvement. This is further explored in the lines where the protagonist admits to not knowing how to love 'something innocent without leaving my fingerprints out,' indicating a fear of leaving a lasting impact or being genuinely vulnerable.

The song also touches on the inability to express love or remorse, encapsulated in the phrase 'L-O-V-E’s just another word I never learned to pronounce.' This metaphor highlights the character's detachment and difficulty with expressing genuine feelings, which is a significant barrier in their relationships. The dismissive attitude towards attempts at romance ('that type of shit just don't work on me') and the acknowledgment that 'we were never in love' serve as a protective facade to mask the character's deeper insecurities and regrets about their emotional capabilities.