Cut Your Hair
Penelope Isles Lyrics

The first verse of "Cut Your Hair" discusses the idea of societal expectations and conformity. The line "You didn't have to cut your hair" implies that the person being addressed made a choice to conform to societal norms and expectations, represented by getting a conventional job and sitting in an office chair. It suggests that the person felt compelled to change themselves rather than staying true to who they are. The next line, "You didn't have to change your mind," further emphasizes the theme of feeling pressured to conform. The singer reflects on their own internal struggle, wondering if they, too, might succumb to societal expectations and change their own mind.

The second verse explores the consequences and sacrifices made when conforming to societal expectations. "You did it up and sold your strings" suggests that the person being addressed settled for a more conventional lifestyle, potentially giving up their freedom or artistic pursuits. The line "started talking kids and things" implies that the person embraced traditional societal roles, such as considering starting a family. However, there is a sense of unfulfilled potential in these decisions, as the line "There's so much more to see just yet" indicates. It suggests that the person may have limited their experiences and adventures by conforming too early in life without exploring other possibilities.

The chorus poses a series of questions, asking if the person laughed or thought deeply about their decisions. "Did you laugh or were you thinking to" suggests that perhaps the person made these choices without considering the full ramifications, possibly laughing off any doubts or concerns. The repetition of the question emphasizes the importance and curiosity surrounding the person's emotional state at the time. The line "Did you laugh while you were sleeping" suggests that the person may have been keeping up appearances while privately wrestling with their choices. It touches on the idea of hidden emotions and questioning whether the person truly finds contentment in their conformist decisions.

The final line, "Did you laugh," is left open-ended, leaving interpretation to the listener. It could be seen as a challenge to the person being addressed, asking if they genuinely find joy and fulfillment in their choices, or if they have sacrificed their authenticity for societal validation. Ultimately, the lyrics of "Cut Your Hair" explore the complexities and pressures of conformity, questioning the trade-offs made when one chooses to conform rather than following their own path.