Princesses Don't Cry

CARYS's song 'Princesses Don't Cry' is a powerful anthem that delves into the societal expectations placed on women and the internal struggle they face to conform to these norms. The lyrics juxtapose the traditional image of a princess—graceful, composed, and untroubled—with the reality of emotional turmoil and the pressure to maintain a facade of perfection. The song speaks to the resilience of women who, despite being told they are wrong or strange by men, continue to stand strong and not let their emotions be dictated by others, especially by those who do not value them.

The repeated line 'A princess doesn't cry' serves as a metaphor for the expectation that women should suppress their emotions and the pain they endure. It's a commentary on the idea that women must always appear strong and unbreakable, even when facing 'monsters in the night'—a metaphor for the challenges and fears they encounter. However, the song also carries an undercurrent of defiance, as the artist emphasizes the importance of not wasting time on those who do not appreciate one's true worth, symbolized by 'boys with pretty eyes.'

The song's bridge, 'I'm fine, I won't waste my time / Keep it in a jar, gonna leave it for the next one,' suggests a decision to move on from past hurts and not let them define one's future. It's a declaration of self-preservation and emotional independence. CARYS's message is one of empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace their inner strength and to recognize that showing emotion is not a sign of weakness, but rather a part of being human, even for a 'princess.'