The lyrics of "Retired at 21" describe the disillusionment and inevitable downfall of a young person who once had money and power but ultimately falls victim to the harsh realities of life, siding with authority figures and losing their sense of self.

Meaning of "Retired At 21" by Black Flag

"Retired at 21" by Black Flag paints a bleak picture of a young individual who had once felt invincible, with money in their pocket and power at their disposal. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that this person's time at the top is short-lived. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and loss as the protagonist realizes the hollowness of their former life. The reference to being "retired at 21" suggests that this person has been prematurely worn down by the pressures and dangers of their lifestyle, succumbing to the influence of authority figures and losing touch with their own identity. The repeated chorus emphasizes the finality of this downfall and the resignation to a fate controlled by others. The song captures a sense of disillusionment and inevitability, warning against the fleeting nature of power and the dangers of compromising one's values for short-term gain.