by In the world of pop music, there are artists who sing songs, and then there’s Pink, who weaves magic with her words. “So What” is one of her iconic tracks that showcases her playful and clever use of language. From puns and double entendres to unexpected word choices and repetition, Pink’s wordplay in this song is a masterclass in lyrical craftsmanship. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the surprising ways she manipulates words to create a song that’s not only catchy but also emotionally charged.
- Puns and Double Entendres
One of the standout features of Pink’s lyrics in “So What” is her skillful use of puns and double entendres. These linguistic tools add layers of meaning to the song, making it a rich experience for listeners.
“I don’t need a reason why, I don’t need an alibi/ ‘Cause I’m just gonna walk on by.” Here, Pink masterfully uses the double entendre. She’s not just physically passing someone by; she’s also metaphorically moving on from their judgment or expectations. The alibi she doesn’t need isn’t just about a crime but also an excuse for her actions.
“It’s gonna be alright/ I know we said we’d try/ And I know that you said goodbye/ But hey, there’s nothin’ like a challenge.” In these lines, Pink plays with the word “try.” It can refer to both a romantic relationship and trying to break a bad habit (smoking in this case). This adds extra weight to her defiance, highlighting her determination to face challenges head-on.
- Internal Rhyme and Assonance
Pink’s ability to create internal rhyme and assonance within her lyrics is another aspect that sets “So What” apart. These techniques make the song’s rhythm and sound captivating and memorable.
“So what?/ I’m still a rock star/ I got my rock star friends/ We’re rollin’ in pink cars.” The repetition of the “o” sound in “so what,” “rock star,” “rock star friends,” and “rollin'” creates a catchy internal rhyme and assonance. This not only adds musicality to the song but also emphasizes her self-assuredness.
“Pick it up, pick it up, put it in the air/ Don’t care, don’t care, throw it like you don’t care.” Pink’s repetition of “pick it up” and “don’t care” not only creates rhythm but also reinforces her carefree attitude through sound. It’s a clever way of using language to convey her message.
- Unexpected Word Choices and Juxtapositions
Pink’s lyrics in “So What” are filled with unexpected word choices and juxtapositions that paint vivid and thought-provoking images.
“I may be bitter, but I’m a bitter delight/ Like a lemon meringue pie.” Here, Pink compares bitterness to a sweet dessert, which is a surprising metaphor. This juxtaposition reflects the complexity of her emotional state. It’s as if she’s saying that even in her bitterness, there’s something delightful about her.
“I eat glitter for breakfast and shine it with the rain/ And I swallow lightning whole just to feel the pain.” These lines are packed with unusual and striking images. The idea of eating glitter for breakfast and shining it with rain showcases her resilience and perhaps a hint of masochistic defiance. It’s a testament to Pink’s ability to craft lyrics that leave a lasting impression.
- Repetition and Call and Response
Repetition is a powerful rhetorical device, and Pink employs it effectively in “So What.” Her use of repetition creates a call and response with the listener, drawing them into her defiance.
“So what?/ Yeah, so what?/ You think I’m gonna cry?” The repetition of “so what” intensifies her dismissal of judgment and creates a call and response with the listener. It’s as if she’s daring her detractors to challenge her even more. This repetition makes the song feel like a conversation, where Pink is assertively defending herself.
- Wordplay with Song Title
Lastly, Pink’s wordplay extends to the song’s title itself. She cleverly weaves the title into the lyrics, adding an extra layer of irony and self-assuredness.
“If you’re lookin’ for another fight/ Then you came to the right place.” By playing on the song title “So What,” Pink ironically invites further criticism. This showcases her confidence in her unbothered attitude. She’s essentially saying, “If you want to challenge me, go ahead; I’m ready.”
Conclusion
Pink’s wordplay in “So What” is not just about crafting catchy rhymes and clever turns of phrase. It’s a powerful tool that allows her to express her emotional complexity, resilience, and defiance. Through her playful yet biting lyrics, she empowers listeners to embrace their own imperfections and navigate heartbreak with a rebellious spirit.
The examples discussed here are just a starting point, and there’s certainly more to discover in Pink’s wordplay in “So What.” Her ability to manipulate language is truly remarkable, and it’s what makes this song an enduring classic in the world of pop music. So, the next time you listen to “So What,” pay close attention to the words—it’s not just a song; it’s a lyrical masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated.
