“Pretty Isn’t Pretty Enough” by Olivia Rodrigo grapples with the intense pressure of societal beauty standards and the profound impact they can have on one’s self-esteem and self-worth. This deeply emotional song voices the internal struggles of an individual attempting to conform to these unattainable societal expectations.
The first verse uncovers personal attempts to adhere to societal beauty norms, such as purchasing makeup and controlling diet, indicating a willingness to compromise personal wellbeing and natural identity in favor of perceived acceptance and attraction. The use of a new prescription, likely to manage stress or anxiety, shows the mental health implications that these unrealistic standards can impose.
In the chorus, the song underscores the unending nature of the quest for beauty, expressing the futility of changing physical characteristics to fit societal narratives of attractiveness. It suggests that alterations, whether they are changing physical features or trying different cosmetics, do not enhance one’s feelings of self-contentment. Essentially, it conveys an emotionally resonant message that no level of ‘pretty’ is deemed adequate in the spectrum of societal standards, which directly impacts self-perception and self-esteem.
The second verse amplifies the omnipresence of these pressures in various media—magazines, posters, and digital platforms. It suggests the involvement of romantic relationships in the enforcement of beauty standards, showing how these pressures pervade private spheres of life along with the public.
The bridge and outro lyrics reinforce the idea that striving to meet societal norms, by adopting specific clothing styles or chasing ideals, results in endless cycles of discomfort and dissatisfaction. The song concludes by emphasizing ‘pretty’ being insufficient and questions the very concept of its existence.
Rife with symbolism and introspection, “Pretty Isn’t Pretty Enough” is a powerful commentary on societal beauty ideals’ oppressive nature, their impact on mental health, and personal identity. The song invites listeners to challenge these norms and cultivate a sense of self-acceptance, independent of societal validation.