Meaning of "Old Fashioned" by Panic! At The Disco

"Old Fashioned" delves into the theme of nostalgia and the longing for the carefree days of youth. The lyrics take us on a journey back to a time when the narrator and their friends were young and full of life. The reference to "once upon a thrill" suggests a time of excitement and adventure, where every moment held the possibility of something extraordinary.

They describe how they used to indulge in the nights "like they had nine lives," emphasizing their fearlessness and willingness to take risks. The line "dead and gone so long, seventeen's so gone" reflects the passage of time and the realization that their youthful enthusiasm and freedom have faded away. The repetition of these lines reinforces their longing for a time when they were seventeen, a symbol of their youthful innocence and vitality.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea that they were "borderline kids with a book of disorders," suggesting that they were outsiders or misunderstood in some way. They turned to medication to maintain a sense of normalcy, highlighting the struggles they faced while trying to fit into society's expectations.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the bittersweet nature of nostalgia. The "false side of hope" refers to the illusion that memories can bring back the same feelings and experiences of the past. However, the truth is that memories are all that remain when the moment is over. The idea of pouring out liquor and making an "old-fashioned" is a metaphor for revisiting the past and finding solace in the memories of youth.

As the song progresses, the lyrics remind us that we were once "brilliant and bored," yearning for excitement and novelty. But now, the nostalgia feels like a wasteland, bringing a sense of loss and longing. The repeated refrain to "get boozy" suggests that they are attempting to drown their sorrows or recapture the feeling of their carefree youth through alcohol.

Ultimately, "Old Fashioned" is a reflection on the transience of youth and the yearning for a simpler and more exciting time. The song serves as a reminder to cherish the best moments of our lives and find comfort in the memories that shaped us.