The Prettiest Thing
Scars on Broadway
The Bittersweet Beauty of a Hard Love
Scars on Broadway's song "The Prettiest Thing" delves into the complexities of a challenging yet unforgettable love. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that, despite its difficulties, leaves an indelible mark on the narrator. The recurring phrase "It was a hard love" suggests that the relationship was fraught with challenges, making it difficult to forget and move on from. The metaphor of a king and queen underscores the significance and grandeur of the bond, implying that the love was once seen as something majestic and all-encompassing.
The imagery of meeting someone in a cage and falling into their prayers evokes a sense of entrapment and devotion. The cage could symbolize emotional or psychological barriers, while the prayers might represent the deep emotional connection and the hope for something transcendent. The act of kissing and declaring the other person as "the prettiest thing in the world" highlights the intense affection and admiration the narrator feels, despite the underlying struggles.
The song's bittersweet tone is further emphasized by the repetition of the phrase "It was a hard love to swallow." This line suggests that the relationship, while beautiful and significant, was also difficult to endure. The unresolved nature of the lyrics, with some lines trailing off into ambiguity, mirrors the unresolved emotions and lingering impact of the relationship. Overall, "The Prettiest Thing" captures the essence of a love that is both beautiful and painful, leaving a lasting impression on the narrator's heart and mind.