Exhale

Sabrina Carpenter's song 'Exhale' delves into the pressures of life and the overwhelming expectations placed upon an individual. The lyrics metaphorically ask who put the 'baby' in charge, suggesting a feeling of being unprepared or too young to handle the responsibilities thrust upon her. The 'world on my back' signifies the heavy burden of expectations, and the plea to 'just give me a chance' reflects a desire for understanding and space to grow at her own pace.

The chorus, with its repeated requests to 'exhale for a minute,' 'get this out in the open,' and 'breathe for just one second,' is a powerful cry for respite and a moment of peace amidst the chaos. It's a call for a break from the constant advice and demands coming from all directions, including family, the music industry ('listen to the labels'), and society at large. The song captures the universal struggle of trying to meet external demands while staying true to oneself, and the stress that comes with trying to live up to an ideal that may feel unattainable.

Sabrina Carpenter, through her poignant lyrics, touches on the theme of self-doubt and the internalization of pressure. The lines 'I put too much weight on words and glances' and 'I don't deserve what I've earned' reveal a deep-seated insecurity and the harmful impact of constantly feeling judged. 'Exhale' is not just a personal narrative but a relatable message about the importance of taking a moment to breathe and the need for self-compassion in a world that often demands perfection.