Meaning of "Messed Up Kids" by Jake Bugg

"Messed Up Kids" by Jake Bugg delves into the lives of disadvantaged and troubled young people who are caught in a cycle of hopelessness. The lyrics describe Johnny, who deals drugs, and Jenny, who has been kicked out of her home and is now living on the streets. Both characters represent the countless individuals who find themselves in dire situations and resort to extreme measures to survive.

The song opens with Johnny, who believes he is invincible but avoids confrontation. This suggests that he may use his involvement in the drug trade to exert power and control, but avoids getting into physical altercations. Jenny, on the other hand, is depicted as a vulnerable young woman who has been forced out of her home due to difficult circumstances. The lyrics illustrate the desperation and struggles faced by these messed up kids, whose lives are filled with poverty and despair.

The recurring theme of selling time, drugs, and their own bodies reflects the lengths these individuals are willing to go to in order to survive. They have become commodities in a world that constantly exploits and disregards them. The sea of empty pockets and the mention of beautiful girls with dark eyes within their sockets indicate the emotional toll these circumstances have had on them. Their beauty is overshadowed by the bleakness of their existence.

The line "Give up on us long ago with no hope" illustrates how society has abandoned these messed up kids, leaving them with no sense of hope for a better future. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes their dire situation as they continue to sell what little they have.

Overall, "Messed Up Kids" sheds light on the harsh reality faced by young individuals who are trapped in poverty, desperation, and societal neglect. It serves as a commentary on the systemic issues and lack of support that perpetuate their struggles.