Meaning of "Scratch" by Kendall Payne

The lyrics of "Scratch" convey a sense of longing for a simpler and more innocent time. The line "everyday I wish I was small" reflects a desire to escape the complexities and responsibilities that come with adulthood. The protagonist feels overwhelmed in a "big girl world" and yearns for the security and comfort of being small, where life's challenges were less daunting.

The song also highlights the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the tension between her aspirations and reality. She had once believed she was special and could change the world with her talents, symbolized by "I thought I could change the world with a song." However, she realizes that she has faced disappointment and setbacks, ending up in India without a clear direction home. This serves as a metaphor for feeling lost and uncertain in life.

Throughout the lyrics, the protagonist's introspection reveals a sense of insecurity and fear of rejection. She questions what others think of her, particularly someone she cares deeply about. The line "Would you still say you love me under this ordinary moonlight?" reflects her anxiety about how her loved one perceives her, and her vulnerability is evident in the line "I'm so afraid of what you'd say." This fear of being judged or misunderstood underlies her longing for a second chance.

The desire for a fresh start and the possibility of reconciliation are key themes in the song. The protagonist expresses a desire for a clean slate and asks if the other person would be "open to starting over from scratch" and "open to giving me a second chance." This vulnerability and hope for rebuilding a damaged relationship underscores the universal desire for forgiveness and redemption.