Four Pink Walls

Alessia Cara's 'Four Pink Walls' is a poignant reflection on her journey from a mundane, dream-filled childhood to the realization of her aspirations. The song begins with vivid imagery of her younger years, where she memorized the cracks in her bedroom walls and watched particles fall from the ceiling. These lines symbolize a period of stagnation and longing for change. Cara's daily prayers for transformation and her nightly escapes into music highlight her deep desire for a different life, one that she believed was destined for her but seemed out of reach.

The chorus reveals a turning point where the universe aligns with her dreams, suggesting a moment of serendipity or destiny. The 'four pink walls' of her childhood bedroom, once a symbol of confinement, become a backdrop to her dreams. As the song progresses, Cara describes waking up in different bedrooms every day, a metaphor for her newfound success and the constant change that comes with it. The contrast between her past and present is stark, emphasizing the dramatic shift from watching paint dry to being amazed by the limelight.

Cara's lyrics also touch on the emotional journey of her transformation. She reflects on the impatience and frustration of her youth, the nights spent wondering why things weren't different. The sudden shift from 'When Boredom Strikes' to 'Ms. Star on the Rise' encapsulates the rapid change in her life. Despite her success, there's a nostalgic longing for the simplicity of her past, as she admits to missing those 'four pink walls.' This duality of emotions—gratitude for her achievements and a wistful remembrance of her beginnings—adds depth to the song, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever dreamed of a better life.