Problem Child

Vesta Lugg's song 'Problem Child' is a powerful declaration of self-acceptance and defiance against societal norms. The lyrics convey a strong message about the importance of staying true to oneself, even when others try to mold you into something you're not. The opening lines, 'I wasn't lost for them to find / All they did was waste their time,' set the tone for the song, emphasizing that the protagonist never needed saving or fixing. Instead, they are proud of their unique qualities, symbolized by the metaphor of being 'gold' that doesn't need to be sold or altered.

The recurring imagery of a rose with more thorns than petals serves as a poignant metaphor for the protagonist's personality. Roses are traditionally seen as symbols of beauty, but the thorns represent the challenges and defenses that come with being true to oneself. The lines 'I have more thorns than petals / They're part of me / You can't take them away from me' highlight the idea that these 'thorns' are an integral part of their identity and beauty. This metaphor extends to the notion that being different or difficult is not a flaw but a strength.

The song also addresses the criticism and judgment faced by those who don't conform. The protagonist acknowledges being labeled a 'problem child' but turns this label on its head by asserting that the real problem lies with those who try to impose their standards on others. The lines 'So you say I'm a problem child / Well baby don't you see / That you're the one with the problem, honey, it's not me' encapsulate this defiance. The song becomes an anthem for 'gypsy souls' and 'free spirits,' celebrating the freedom to be oneself and the strength to resist societal pressures.