Meaning of "Shed Reading (Rattus Norvegicus)" by Black Flag

The lyrics of "Shed Reading (Rattus Norvegicus)" by Black Flag delve into the theme of alienation and the desire for acceptance. The rat narrator symbolizes an outcast or marginalized individual who feels misunderstood and mistreated by society. By anthropomorphizing the rat, the song draws parallels between the struggles of the narrator and those faced by humans who feel ostracized or marginalized. The narrator's longing for connection, expressed through desires to go to parties, movies, or bowling, highlights their yearning for acceptance and understanding. Ultimately, the song serves as a poignant commentary on the universal human experience of longing for connection and belonging, regardless of one's outward appearance or perceived differences.