This Is What Makes Us Girls by Lana Del Rey Song Info
"This Is What Makes Us Girls" tells the story of a group of teenage girls who are willing to do anything to feel alive and feel love. The song starts by describing their rebellious behavior, such as sneaking out at night and stealing police cars, as they search for excitement and a taste of real life. The focus then shifts to the friendship between the narrator and her new best friend, who cries about some guys who have hurt her. The chorus repeats the phrase "this is what makes us girls" as a refrain, emphasizing the idea that their pursuit of love and happiness is what defines them as young women. They are willing to put love first, even if it means they might suffer for it, as seen in the line "Something that we'd die for, it's a curse". As the song progresses, the behavior of the girls becomes more extreme, such as skipping school and drinking on the job. However, the bond between them remains strong, and they continue to look out for each other. The bridge describes them as the "prettiest in-crowd" and "degenerate beauty queens", highlighting their beauty and rebelliousness. The song ends with the realization that their reckless behavior has consequences, as the narrator is sent away and forced to leave her friends behind. Despite this, the chorus repeats the idea that their pursuit of love and happiness is what defines them and sets them apart from others. Overall, "This Is What Makes Us Girls" is a nostalgic and bittersweet reflection on the power of female friendship and the desire to feel alive and loved as a young woman. It is the twelfth and final track from the standard version of Lana Del Rey's second studio album and major-label debut, Born to Die.
