The song "Petty Isn't Pretty" by Erika Costell is about moving on from a toxic and unnecessary relationship. The lyrics describe someone who constantly follows and creeps up on the speaker like a shadow, but they no longer have an effect on the speaker's emotions. The song talks about the other person talking and lying about the past, but the speaker chooses to stay unbothered and allows the other person to do whatever they want. The repetitive phrase "petty isn't pretty" emphasizes that engaging in petty behavior is unattractive and unproductive. The lyrics also suggest that the other person is still hung up on the past and tries to convince others that the speaker wants to be with them. However, the speaker asserts that they are better off alone and that the other person doesn't matter anymore. Towards the end of the song, the lyrics convey a sense of empowerment. The speaker encourages the other person to do something harmful to themself, indicating their indifference and readiness to move on. The repetition of "petty isn't pretty" reinforces the message that engaging in petty behavior only holds one back. Overall, "Petty Isn't Pretty" is a track about rising above negativity, letting go of toxic people, and embracing self-confidence and independence.
