"Matilda" is about the journey and power of self-growth and independence. The song encourages the listener to see past harmful circumstances and seize their own destiny. Harry Styles encourages Matilda to let go of her pain and not feel sorry for growing up and leaving the environments that treated her poorly. He encourages Matilda to embrace adventure and discovery, to explore the world, dye her clothes, and even start a family of people who love and appreciate her for who she is. The message is about embracing personal power, independence and choice in one's life.