Meaning of "All Screwed Up" by AC/DC

In "All Screwed Up," AC/DC portrays a character who revels in their tough and unruly nature. The lyrics suggest a sense of rebellion and defiance, as the persona walks roughly and acts tough. There is a sense of volatility and unpredictability in their behavior, with the use of phrases like "go fast wo', wo', wo'" and "things go tough." The persona enjoys asserting their dominance and "strutting their stuff," but when it comes to pursuing a deeper connection or relationship ("And I want your thing"), they are out of luck.

The repeated phrase "It's all screwed up" serves as a central motif in the song, representing the chaotic and disorderly nature of the situation. The persona describes taking someone out to "kick some butt" and "work you over," implying a willingness to engage in physical confrontation and assert their power over others. However, there is a suggestion of a cyclical pattern, as the persona refers to being "pushed out that door" when they can no longer handle the situation. This suggests that their aggressive behavior ultimately leads to repercussions for them as well.

The lyrics also hint at the persona's inner turmoil. The line "Like a dog gone mad, she can pack some punch" suggests a state of madness or inner conflict, possibly alluding to the persona's own struggles and inner demons. Additionally, the phrase "Take you out to kick some butt" implies that the persona is using physical aggression as a means of dealing with their own frustrations or insecurities.

Overall, "All Screwed Up" explores themes of aggression, dominance, and the chaotic nature of the persona's actions. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and a disregard for the consequences of their behavior. It serves as a portrayal of a complex and troubled character whose actions are driven by a sense of control and power.