Meaning of "Teenage Werewolf" by John Cooper Clarke

The lyrics of "Teenage Werewolf" delve deep into themes of alienation, disillusionment, and identity crisis. The protagonist seems to be lost in a world filled with superficial relationships, violence, and a profound sense of emptiness. The reference to being a teenage werewolf could symbolize the inner conflict and struggle the narrator faces in trying to reconcile their true self with the societal expectations and pressures around them. The mention of murder victims, detectives, and creepy scenarios adds a layer of darkness to the narrative, highlighting a feeling of being trapped in a sinister world where nothing is as it seems. The repeated question of "or was I" at the end of each stanza hints at a sense of uncertainty and blurred lines between reality and illusion, questioning the authenticity of the experiences the narrator has gone through. Overall, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the complexities of life, identity, and the search for meaning in a harsh and unforgiving world.