it sounds like a piece of metal rubbing on something or a spring being stretched from the clutch area. it just started lately.. what could this be? its a 93 SI hatch.

 

Squeaking noise, or more of a rubbing sound? It's probably your release bearing (Is that the same as the throw-out bearing?). Common problem, but you have to drop your tranny to replace it. They're only about $10, but if your going to go through the trouble, then you might as well replace the clutch while your in there. Most clutches come with these bearings.