Perfection
Harper Lyrics


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Perfection
Creeping in again
You can't think of the perfect word
So nothing does
Instead
You can't think of the perfect tone so you stay
Silent
Meticulous, arithmetic
And nothing sticks
And nothing sticks
Meticulous, arithmetic
And nothing sticks
And nothing sticks

Perfection

Perfection is your only friend
When everything is crumbling
You can't escape
A thing
Your head is screaming let it out
You can't pick up
The pen

You lay it down, brick by brick
And nothing sticks, nothing sticks
Meticulous, arithmetic
And nothing sticks
And nothing sticks





Perfection

Overall Meaning

The lyrics in Harper's song "Perfection" delve into the theme of internal pressure and the illusive pursuit of flawlessness. The repetition of the word "perfection" throughout the song emphasizes the singer's relentless quest for an unattainable standard. The verse "Creeping in again You can't think of the perfect word So nothing does" illustrates the frustration and paralysis that comes with striving for perfection. The inability to find the perfect word or tone results in a sense of inadequacy and silence, highlighting the stifling nature of perfectionism.


The lyrics also touch upon the isolating nature of perfectionism, with the line "Perfection is your only friend When everything is crumbling" suggesting that the singer relies on the pursuit of perfection as a coping mechanism in times of turmoil. However, this reliance on an unachievable ideal only serves to further exacerbate their distress, as seen in the line "Your head is screaming let it out You can't pick up The pen". This struggle to express oneself authentically due to the pressure of perfection encapsulates the internal conflict portrayed in the song.


The repeated references to "Meticulous, arithmetic And nothing sticks" convey a sense of frustration and futility in the singer's efforts. Despite meticulous planning and calculation, the desired outcome continually eludes them, leading to a sense of stagnation and ineffectiveness. The imagery of laying down bricks that do not stick further reinforces the idea of a fruitless endeavor, where even the most carefully constructed efforts fail to meet the unattainable standard of perfection.


In conclusion, "Perfection" by Harper delves into the complexities of perfectionism and its impact on the individual. The song captures the cycle of striving for an ideal that remains perpetually out of reach, resulting in feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and frustration. Through its insightful lyrics and poignant imagery, the song offers a poignant reflection on the destructive nature of perfectionism and the toll it can take on one's mental well-being.


Line by Line Meaning

Creeping in again
Perfect standards quietly resurface


You can't think of the perfect word
Struggling to find flawless expression


So nothing does
Resulting in nothing at all


Instead
Therefore


You can't think of the perfect tone so you stay
Choosing to remain silent due to inability to find ideal voice


Silent
Without sound


Meticulous, arithmetic
Precise, calculated


And nothing sticks
Yet nothing adheres


Perfection
Striving for flawlessness


Perfection is your only friend
Perfection becomes sole ally


When everything is crumbling
Amidst chaos and collapse


You can't escape
Unable to break free


A thing
Any aspect


Your head is screaming let it out
Mind yearning to release


You can't pick up
Unable to grasp


The pen
Writing tool


You lay it down, brick by brick
Slowly building up


And nothing sticks, nothing sticks
Yet still lacking adherence




Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Hannah Peterson-McDaniel

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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