Orange Juice

Melanie Martinez's song 'Orange Juice' is a poignant exploration of body image issues and the struggles associated with eating disorders, particularly bulimia. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is grappling with self-image and the destructive behaviors that can accompany this battle. The metaphor of turning 'oranges to orange juice' represents the act of purging, a common symptom of bulimia, where the individual consumes food only to force it out of their body shortly after. The song's narrative perspective seems to be that of an observer, possibly a friend or a conscience, who is watching the struggle and offering a compassionate viewpoint.

The chorus emphasizes the idea that everyone's body is 'imperfectly perfect' and highlights the societal pressure to conform to certain beauty standards. Martinez touches on the irony of how people often desire the attributes of others, not realizing that everyone has their own insecurities. This societal commentary is wrapped in a haunting melody that underscores the seriousness of the subject matter. The repetition of 'no more orange juice' serves as a plea for the cessation of harmful behaviors and the acceptance of one's body.

The bridge of the song offers a shift in perspective, where the singer expresses a desire to lend the subject their own eyes, suggesting that a change in viewpoint could help the individual see themselves in a more positive light. The song ends with a sense of empathy and the hope that the person suffering will find peace and self-acceptance. Martinez's style, often characterized by dark storytelling set to whimsical, nursery rhyme-like tunes, effectively conveys the contrast between the innocence of the music and the gravity of the song's message.