Grow a Pear
Kesha
Tough Love and Gender Expectations in Kesha's 'Grow a Pear'
Kesha's song 'Grow a Pear' is a bold and unapologetic exploration of gender roles and expectations within romantic relationships. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and disappointment as Kesha addresses a partner who, in her view, has failed to live up to traditional masculine ideals. The phrase 'grow a pear' is a play on words, suggesting that the partner needs to 'grow a pair'—a colloquial expression meaning to toughen up or be more assertive. This wordplay underscores the song's central theme of challenging gender norms and expectations.
The song opens with Kesha expressing her dissatisfaction with her partner's behavior, which she perceives as overly emotional and unmanly. She contrasts her initial attraction to him with her current disillusionment, highlighting how his actions have led her to reconsider the relationship. The repeated refrain, 'When you grow a pear, you can call me back,' serves as both a directive and a condition for the continuation of their relationship. This line encapsulates the song's message: Kesha desires a partner who embodies traditional masculine traits and is emotionally resilient.
Throughout the song, Kesha employs humor and blunt language to convey her point, using terms like 'bitch' and 'mangina' to emphasize her partner's perceived lack of masculinity. While these terms are provocative and controversial, they also reflect Kesha's characteristic irreverence and willingness to push boundaries. The song can be seen as a commentary on the pressures and expectations placed on men to conform to certain gender norms, as well as the impact of these expectations on romantic relationships. By addressing these themes in a candid and humorous manner, Kesha invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and attitudes about gender and relationships.