Meaning of "Public Animal #9" by Alice Cooper

The lyrics of "Public Animal #9" by Alice Cooper speak to the rebellious spirit and defiance of authority that is often experienced during adolescence. The protagonist of the song, represented as "Public Animal Number Nine," seems to take pride in their outsider status and rebellious actions, such as cheating on tests and vandalizing school property. Despite facing consequences and being compared to a criminal in a state penitentiary, the protagonist remains unapologetic and unwavering in their identity as a defiant and rebellious individual. The repeated references to being proud of being "Public Animal Number Nine" suggest a defiance of societal norms and expectations, as well as a refusal to conform to the standards set by authority figures. The character portrayed in the song embodies a sense of rebellion and a rejection of the conventional path, choosing instead to embrace their identity as an outsider.