Song meaning of Parental Guidance by Margaret Glaspy

The song "Parental Guidance" by Margaret Glaspy conveys a message about the pressure and expectations placed on individuals by society, particularly through the lens of parental influence. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is growing up in a small town and struggling to fit in with their peers. They are advised to play it cool and try to please others in order to avoid being disliked, implying the societal pressure to conform and be accepted.

The chorus emphasizes the idea that this pressure and guidance from parents is supposedly for the individual's own good. It suggests that trying harder and conforming to societal expectations is necessary for success and happiness. The repetition of the line "It's about time you started to try a little harder" further emphasizes this idea of the need to conform.

However, in the second verse, the lyrics suggest that the individual is already "swell" and perfectly fine as they are. The idea of bracing teeth and changing things implies an urge to change and mold the individual to fit societal standards of beauty or perfection. The line "Run with the pack, baby, don't do it alone" suggests that conformity is seen as the safer and more secure option, even if it means sacrificing individuality.

The song's message can be interpreted as a critique of societal expectations and pressures placed on individuals. It encourages listeners to question the necessity of conforming and to embrace their true selves, even if it means going against the grain. The lyrics highlight the tension between the desire to be accepted and the importance of self-expression.