Meaning of "Washed Up At 18" by Floorpunch

The lyrics of "Washed Up At 18" by Floorpunch address the idea of authenticity within a subculture. The narrator speaks from a position of experience and authority, stating that the individual they are addressing does not deserve respect because they did not earn it. The notion of "paying dues" is crucial in underground scenes and subcultures, symbolizing a respect for tradition, hard work, and dedication. The narrator sees through the facade of the individual as someone who has not truly been a part of their community but rather as an outsider looking for a temporary place in it. The dismissive tone and lack of sentimentality in the lyrics suggest a sense of betrayal or disappointment towards someone who is seen as unauthentic or insincere. The final lines, "I'll help you with the door," indicate a final act of dismissal, emphasizing the finality of the narrator's decision to sever ties with this individual.