paper
kenzie
The Illusion of Perfection: A Deeper Look into 'Paper' by kenzie
In 'Paper,' kenzie delves into the complexities of post-breakup emotions and the facade of perfection. The song opens with the protagonist discovering that her ex has quickly moved on to someone new, a revelation that stings deeply. The lyrics, 'My friends saw you with her / Then I saw the pictures / No one moves on that fast,' set the stage for a narrative filled with skepticism and unresolved feelings. The protagonist questions the authenticity of her ex's new relationship, suggesting that it is merely a superficial attempt to fill the void left by their breakup.
The chorus, 'She looks good on paper, but I'm a fucking mess / She's got her shit together, I won't lie I'm impressed,' juxtaposes the new girlfriend's outward perfection with the protagonist's own perceived flaws. This contrast highlights a common theme in modern relationships: the pressure to appear perfect on social media and in public, even when reality tells a different story. The protagonist acknowledges the new girlfriend's qualities but insists that these are only surface-level attributes. The line 'But even though she's beautiful and perfect / It's only on the surface' underscores the idea that true compatibility goes beyond appearances.
Kenzie also touches on the lingering emotional connection between the protagonist and her ex. Despite his new relationship, he still reaches out to her when he's vulnerable, as evidenced by the line, 'You still call me when you're drunk.' This suggests that the emotional bond they shared is not easily replaced, no matter how perfect the new girlfriend may seem. The song ultimately conveys a message about the superficiality of appearances and the enduring nature of genuine emotional connections, making it a poignant reflection on love and loss in the digital age.