Meaning of "17" by Jaws

The lyrics of "17" by Jaws depict the struggles of a young individual battling with inner demons and mental health issues. The "beast on my back" symbolizes the burden of negative thoughts and emotions that the speaker is carrying. The repetition of wanting to "throw it off the edge" and "run from me" highlights the desire to escape from these overwhelming feelings of isolation and anxiety. The line "And my mind is so kind to keep me out of it" reflects the internal conflict within the speaker's mind, where mental health issues are both a source of suffering and a coping mechanism to numb the pain. The plea to "Talk to me before anybody sees" reveals a fear of vulnerability and the desire to mask one's struggles from the outside world. Overall, the lyrics capture the intense emotional turmoil experienced by the speaker at the tender age of 17, emphasizing the need for support and understanding during difficult times.