ICYMI, Ariana Grande dropped her seventh studio album Eternal Sunshine on Mar. 8, marking her first solo project in over three years. For this landmark record, Grande described it as a “concept album” and made it a point to let fans “experience the album in full” when it came out, apart from the previously released lead single “yes, and?” Needless to say, Eternal Sunshine took fans on an emotional rollercoaster, with songs like “imperfect for you” quickly becoming a common favorite.
Grande identifies “imperfect for you” as one of her top picks on the album, and it’s amazing to see her on the same page as her loyal Arianators. Sonically, it’s a bit different from the rest of Eternal Sunshine as it incorporates some country influences, but its lyrics are just as heart-wrenching.
With standout lines such as “How could we know this was a happy disaster?” and “Let’s go tonight, ‘cause there’s just a few seconds left ‘til tomorrow,” Grande characterizes her safety and security in her current relationship with Ethan Slater. She even opens the song with an adorable mention of his beloved guitar.
In the chorus, Grande sings, “Fucked up, anxious, too much / But I’ll love you like you need me to / Imperfect for you / Messy, completely distressed / But I’m not like that since I met you / Imperfect for you.” These lyrics capture the essence of the song, as Grande addresses the role her insecurities play in her love life.
Plus, am I the only one who noticed the genius wordplay in the song’s titular phrase? When she sings “imperfect for you,” it sometimes sounds like “I’m perfect for you.” This means that all her imperfections make her the perfect match for Slater. Yeah, can someone please pass the Kleenex?
And if you thought you heard Grande sing an off-key note on the word “imperfect,” just know that it was likely intentional. This fan’s breakdown of that melodic choice also has me bawling.
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This song has Arianators in their feels and one quick scroll on X (formerly known as Twitter) makes it clear.
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YOne Arianator noted that a lyric of “imperfect for you” flips a line in Grande’s 2013 smash “Honeymoon Avenue.” Another pointed out her evolution in how she addresses her “baggage.” These beautiful contrasts show her personal growth. Grande is no longer avoiding vulnerability, she’s diving headfirst into her feelings.
Grande has come a long way, and her healing truly radiates in Eternal Sunshine. Gone are the days when her ex-partner would turn up the TV to drown out her crying; she’s finally found someone who embraces her flaws and helps her through her anxiety. I’m so happy for her.
