Meaning of "Perfect for You" by Rachel Platten

The lyrics of "Perfect for You" explore themes of self-acceptance, emotional honesty, and the pressure to conform to someone else's expectations. Rachel Platten starts off by acknowledging her flaws and insecurities, understanding that she is not perfect. However, she also recognizes that the person she is involved with only likes her in small doses, constantly bringing up her flaws and creating drama. This criticism frustrates her, and she questions what she should do with this knowledge.

The chorus captures the core message of the song. Platten expresses her tiredness of trying to be perfect for this person, acknowledging that her insecurities hurt her. She has spent too much time chasing after their approval, jumping through hoops and attempting to meet their unrealistic standards. However, she realizes that it is futile. She cannot be perfect for them or anyone else.

Platten's refusal to change for someone else is a powerful statement of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself. She wears her emotions on her sleeve and is unapologetically real, which she believes should be enough for anyone. She will not let someone make her feel like she is not enough when she knows that she is. The repeated line "So love me, or leave me alone" emphasizes this message of self-worth and the need for acceptance.

Overall, "Perfect for You" is an anthem of self-empowerment and defiance against unrealistic expectations. Platten encourages listeners to embrace their flaws and insecurities, to be authentic, and to reject the idea of needing to be perfect for someone else. It is a reminder that our worth does not rely on meeting someone else's standards but on accepting ourselves as we are.