Meaning of "18" by 5 Seconds Of Summer

The lyrics of "18" by 5 Seconds Of Summer convey the frustration and longing experienced by someone who is not yet of legal age to do certain things, particularly in the context of relationships and romance. The protagonist expresses a desire to be eighteen so they can have the freedom to engage in activities and experiences that are often glamorized and seen as milestones in popular culture and media. They mention reading about these things in a magazine, which suggests that they are influenced by idealized portrayals of adulthood.

The protagonist is specifically drawn to someone older, but the age difference creates a barrier in their potential relationship. They express a desire to get to know this person and emphasize their willingness to wait until they are of legal age to pursue them. This highlights the idea that age can be a significant factor in relationships, as it affects legality, maturity, and life experiences.

Throughout the song, the protagonist touches on their current limitations and frustrations due to their age. They mention not being able to afford bus fare, relying on their mother for transportation, and being unable to get into bars or certain venues. This reinforces the idea that their youth prevents them from fully participating in certain aspects of adulthood.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of longing and yearning for someone who is constantly busy or unavailable. The protagonist mentions that the person they are interested in has a job in the city and is always too busy, indicating that their age is not the only obstacle. This underscores the complexities of relationships and the challenges that can arise when there are external factors beyond age that affect romantic prospects.

Overall, "18" encapsulates the frustrations, desires, and limitations that come with being underage and dreaming of the freedom and experiences associated with adulthood. It explores the theme of age as a barrier to various aspects of life, particularly in the context of relationships and romantic pursuits.