Arts & Crafts (Unreleased)

Melanie Martinez's unreleased track, 'Arts & Crafts,' delves into the theme of embracing imperfections and finding beauty in the broken. The song uses the metaphor of arts and crafts to describe a relationship where the singer takes on the role of a fixer-upper, someone who enjoys mending and decorating the flaws of their partner. The lyrics 'Grab my glue, grab my paint / Playing arts and crafts today' set the stage for this creative and nurturing process, suggesting that love can be an art form where imperfections are not just accepted but celebrated.

The chorus, 'I'm not looking for perfection, I want a challenge / I'm not looking for convention, I want a project,' highlights the singer's preference for partners who are not cookie-cutter perfect but rather come with their own set of challenges and quirks. This sentiment is further emphasized with lines like 'If he's damaged then he's just my type / I like it when they stutter, no,' indicating a deep appreciation for individuality and the unique stories that come with it. The use of 'googly eyes' and 'glitter rhinestones' as metaphors for seeing things differently and adding sparkle to someone's life underscores the transformative power of love.

Martinez's whimsical and somewhat dark style is evident throughout the song, blending childlike imagery with mature themes of love and acceptance. The repeated refrain of 'Whoa-whoa-whoa, Arts & Crafts / Whoa-whoa-whoa, fixer-upper romance' serves as a catchy reminder that love is a creative, ongoing process. By framing the relationship as an art project, the song suggests that true connection comes from embracing and enhancing each other's flaws, rather than seeking out perfection.