99 Cent Store (Unreleased)

Melanie Martinez's unreleased song "99 Cent Store" delves into the theme of disillusionment in love, using the metaphor of a 99 cent store to illustrate the cheap and superficial nature of a past relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a romance that initially seemed vibrant and full of promise, symbolized by the colorful imagery of pinwheels, bubblegum tattoos, and plastic food. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that this love was built on deceit and empty promises, much like the inexpensive and often low-quality items found in a discount store.

The chorus highlights the fleeting nature of this relationship, comparing it to the temporary allure of items in a shopping cart or a parking lot. The line "But when you go home, that's when it falls apart" suggests that the facade of happiness and perfection quickly crumbles when faced with reality. This sentiment is further emphasized by the repeated mention of the 99 cent store, a place that symbolizes the cheap lies and broken promises that characterized the relationship.

Martinez's use of playful yet poignant imagery, such as being serenaded with a kazoo or held up with a loaded water gun, adds a layer of irony to the song. These whimsical elements contrast sharply with the underlying message of betrayal and disappointment. The song ultimately serves as a reflection on the superficiality of certain relationships and the emotional toll they can take, leaving the listener with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia and a reminder of the importance of genuine connections.