Meaning and Lyrics of Prom Queen by Beach Bunny

The song “Prom Queen” by Beach Bunny delves into themes of self-image, societal beauty standards, insecurity, and the pressure to conform to a certain ideal. The lyrics paint a compelling narrative of a young woman grappling with her appearance and feeling inadequate compared to the societal norms of beauty portrayed by others.

In the first verse, the singer expresses feelings of inadequacy compared to a stereotypical “perfect” image, highlighting body insecurities and the desire to fit in with societal ideals. The reference to “mom jeans” and the longing to be like a “blue-eyed blondie” speaks to the pressure many individuals face to conform to a certain physical aesthetic for acceptance and validation.

The chorus reflects the internal struggle of feeling like one needs to change or meet unrealistic beauty standards in order to be liked or accepted by others. The repeated refrain of “I was never cut out for Prom Queen” suggests a sense of not fitting into the mold of what is traditionally considered desirable or beautiful.

The post-chorus raises the question of whether becoming more physically attractive will lead to being liked, illustrating the toxic belief that one’s worth is contingent upon their external appearance.

In the second verse, the singer delves deeper into personal insecurities, likening herself to a “defect surgical project” and feeling suffocated by societal pressures to look a certain way. The image of “plastic wrap in my cheeks” conveys the artificial and suffocating nature of trying to conform to beauty standards.

The bridge delves into the internalized pressure to be pretty in order to be liked or happy, touching on the damaging effects of societal messaging on self-esteem and self-worth. The mention of starvation and carving skin reflects the extreme measures some may take to try to achieve an unrealistic beauty ideal, at great personal cost.

The poignant outro expresses a plea for acceptance and self-assurance, juxtaposing the idea that beauty is synonymous with pain and that happiness is contingent upon meeting certain appearance standards. The desire to be okay and not downplay emotions reflects a universal longing for self-acceptance and inner peace in a world that often equates value with external beauty.

Overall, “Prom Queen” offers a poignant exploration of the struggles individuals face in navigating societal beauty standards, the impact of these pressures on self-image, and the quest for self-acceptance and inner peace amidst a culture that often prioritizes superficial beauty over authentic self-worth.