Meaning of “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
By Elena Rostova
“Perfect” is a track written and sung by renowned vocalist Ed Sheeran. The subject of the song is a British woman by the name of Cherry Seaborn who, in addition to being a childhood friend of Ed is, as can be ascertained from the lyrics of “Perfect”, his love interest.
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On the surface, the lyrics of the first verse more or less resemble that of any love ballad. However, what makes them unique is the lyricist’s assertion that he and the object of his affection have indeed been in love since “they were just kids.” He also explains that due to his youthful understanding of love, he let a previous opportunity to initiate an intimate relationship with her slip away. But “this time”, he is more upfront with expressing his emotions. He goes on to entreat his dear to show reciprocity by showing him love in return.
Chorus 1
The choruses make a reference to the singer being “barefoot on the grass”. This is actually based on a real-life experience Sheeran had as he conceptualized “Perfect” while literally dancing on the lawn at the home of a musician friend. During that time they were listening to a track by rap artist Future. Indeed Sheeran may have acknowledged this fact in the song, as he actually uses the word “future” in the next verse. He also goes on to relay the sentiment that he considers the object of his affection physically “perfect” despite whatever aesthetic shortcomings she may perceive in herself.
Verse 2
This verse continues with the theme of Sheeran praising Seaborn. However, this time he expresses his desire to “share her home” and have children with her, thus insinuating marriage. He also acknowledges that they’re “still kids” and that honing their love will be an uphill battle. However, he is optimistic that everything will be alright and indeed perceives a future when the two of them are indeed together.
Chorus 2
The second chorus begins with the first two bars as the first, which once again mention being “barefoot on the grass”. However, the latter two are slightly different. Sheeran once again praises the perfection, specifically in terms of looks, of Seaborn. But this time there is no indication of Seabron disapproving of her own looks.
Chorus 3
The third chorus also starts off with the same lines as the two previous ones. But for the first time, the lyricist speaks on the overall perfection of his dear, calling her “an angel in person”. However, soon afterwards he once again begins commending her impeccable beauty. He even goes as far as to state he doesn’t deserve someone so attractive as her.
Conclusion
From this song, it can be gleaned that while Ed Sheeran is madly in love with Cherry Seaborn and indeed has been so for most of his life, it is the flawlessly of her physical appearance that appeals to him the most.
Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.
