Meaning of "You're A Soldier" by Hüsker Dü

The lyrics of "You're A Soldier" by Hüsker Dü paint a picture of someone who is impulsive, destructive, and disconnected from the impact of their actions. By likening this person to a soldier, the song critiques the glorification of violence and war in society. The repeated line "You're a soldier" not only emphasizes the destructive nature of the individual but also alludes to the idea of blindly following orders without questioning the morality of their actions. The juxtaposition of a "fresh scrubbed teenage outlook on terror" with a "grown up gun" highlights the idea of innocence corrupted by violence. Overall, the lyrics serve as a commentary on the detrimental effects of unchecked aggression and the dehumanization that can occur in a militarized mindset.