Meaning and Lyrics of Alphabet Boy by Melanie Martinez

“Alphabet Boy” by Melanie Martinez is a song that delves into themes of power dynamics, intelligence, and asserting individuality. In the song, the singer addresses someone who tries to manipulate and belittle her, symbolized by the metaphor of an “alphabet boy.”

The refrain, with the repetitive sounds of “buh-buh-buh,” can be seen as mimicking the sound of someone talking, perhaps highlighting the continuous criticism or condescending behavior the singer faces.

The first verse describes how the person being addressed builds the singer up only to tear her down, likening it to playing with building blocks. Despite attempts to break her spirit, the singer maintains her resilience, refusing to show vulnerability and cry in front of the antagonist.

The pre-chorus challenges the notion of traditional intelligence and education represented by an academic degree. The singer rejects the idea that formal education is the measure of intelligence, asserting her own knowledge and uniqueness. The use of profanity emphasizes her defiance and refusal to conform to societal norms.

The chorus is a declaration of empowerment and growth, with the singer asserting her maturity and independence. She challenges the antagonist who may have once had an upper hand in the relationship, symbolized by winning the “spelling bee,” but questions whether they truly possess superiority over her.

The second verse continues the theme of rejecting manipulation and infantilization. The references to apples, butterscotch, and bubblegum highlight the attempts at superficial apologies and gestures that fall short of genuine remorse. The singer refuses to be treated as a child or a possession, challenging the perceived authority of the antagonist.

The bridge offers a moment of reflection and questioning, calling out the “alphabet boy” and emphasizing a sense of individuality and self-worth separate from external validation or approval.

The outro brings a sense of finality, with the singer repeating “Alphabet boy” as if to assert her identity and stand against the oppressive forces represented by the antagonist. The overall message of the song is one of empowerment and defiance against those who seek to control or diminish one’s spirit or intellect.