Three

Lily Allen's song 'Three' poignantly captures the emotional turmoil of a young child grappling with the absence of a parent. The lyrics are written from the perspective of a three-year-old, who is struggling to understand why their parent is often away. The child’s confusion and longing are palpable as they express feelings of abandonment and a desire for more time and attention. The repeated line, 'I'm only three,' underscores the child's innocence and vulnerability, highlighting their inability to comprehend the complexities of adult responsibilities and the pain of separation.

The song uses simple yet powerful imagery to convey the child's world. For instance, the mention of making a papier-mâché fish for their mother is a touching detail that illustrates the child's efforts to connect and show love. The child's busy social calendar, filled with making friends, contrasts sharply with the parent's absence, emphasizing the child's need for parental presence and the emotional void left by their frequent departures. The line, 'When things feel black and white, we'll do some coloring in,' serves as a metaphor for the child's hope that their parent will return and bring color and joy back into their life.

Lily Allen's choice to write from a child's perspective adds a layer of innocence and raw emotion to the song. It sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional struggles of children with parents who have demanding careers or are frequently away. The song is a heartfelt plea for attention and love, reminding listeners of the profound impact that parental presence—or lack thereof—can have on a child's emotional well-being. Through 'Three,' Allen effectively communicates the universal theme of longing for connection and the simple, yet profound, need for love and attention from those we hold dear.