The song "A Shine to It" by Laura Stevenson and The Cans tells the story of a person who is struggling financially and resorting to selling their blood and posing nude for money. Despite not making much from these efforts, the narrator hopes to impress someone they care about by buying something shiny for them. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and longing for approval and validation from this person. The mention of selling blood and posing nude for an artist gives insight into the narrator's difficult circumstances and the lengths they are willing to go to make ends meet. The repeated refrain of "I know you like shiny things" suggests that the narrator is trying to compensate for their shortcomings with material possessions. Overall, the song captures the vulnerability and longing for connection that can arise from financial struggles and the desire to please someone important in one's life. It is a poignant reminder of the lengths people go to in search of acceptance and love.
