Pretty Hurts

Samantha Ayara's 'Pretty Hurts' is a poignant critique of society's obsession with physical appearance and the often overlooked emotional and psychological toll it takes on individuals. The song opens with a mother advising her daughter that her looks are paramount, dismissing the importance of her thoughts and feelings. This sets the stage for a narrative that delves into the superficial values imposed by society, where external beauty is prioritized over inner well-being.

The recurring line 'Pretty hurts' encapsulates the central theme of the song, highlighting the pain and suffering that come with striving for societal standards of beauty. Ayara uses metaphors like 'perfection is a disease of a nation' to emphasize how these unrealistic ideals are pervasive and damaging. The lyrics 'You're tryna fix something / But you can't fix what you can't see / It's the soul that needs a surgery' suggest that the real issues lie within, and no amount of external alteration can heal internal wounds.

Ayara also critiques the media's role in perpetuating these harmful standards. References to 'TV says bigger is better' and 'Vogue says thinner is better' illustrate how media outlets dictate what is considered beautiful, often leading to unhealthy behaviors and self-perception. The song's climax questions the listener directly: 'Are you happy with yourself?' This introspective moment urges individuals to look beyond the facade and confront their true feelings about themselves, stripped of societal expectations.

'Pretty Hurts' is a powerful anthem that calls for a reevaluation of what truly matters. It encourages self-acceptance and highlights the importance of addressing emotional and psychological health over conforming to superficial standards of beauty.