Greta Isaac's song "Polyfilla" is a heartfelt and emotional track that explores the struggles of being the daughter of someone who is trying their best but unintentionally causing pain and hardship. The lyrics convey a sense of disappointment and frustration, as indicated by phrases such as "Flowers don't last, nothing good can" and "The cracks in the walls start to make sense." The speaker feels that the efforts made by their parent(s) (referred to as "you" in the lyrics) are unable to fix the problems or fill the emotional gaps, similar to how polyfilla is used to fill cracks but cannot truly repair them. The chorus emphasizes the longing for understanding and compassion. The speaker pleads for a break and acknowledges their pain, stating that they are hurting "for the girl in the picture frame." This line suggests that the speaker is yearning for the happiness and innocence depicted in a photograph, longing for a time when things may have been simpler or better. The second verse highlights the impact of family bonds on emotional well-being. The metaphor of blood thickness echoes the saying, "Blood is thicker than water," but the lyrics twist the sentiment by revealing that the stronger the family connection, the more the speaker's heart hurts. The mistakes made by the parent(s) and the feeling of being unable to erase or correct them add to the emotional burden. The bridge brings attention to the suffocating nature of overprotectiveness. The tighter the parent(s) hold onto the speaker, the harder they feel it is to cope, possibly alluding to the pressure and expectations placed upon them. The lyrics assert, "I'm not superhuman," emphasizing that the speaker is human and can only handle so much. In the final chorus, the plea for space intensifies. The speaker asks for a break and the opportunity to feel their heartache without further interference, emphasizing that they are just the parent(s)' daughter and deserve understanding and support. Overall, "Polyfilla" portrays the pain experienced by the speaker as they navigate the complexities of their family relationships. It conveys the longing to be seen, understood, and given the space to process their emotions.
