Meaning of "Bad Catholics" by The Menzingers

The lyrics in "Bad Catholics" explore the concept of rebellion and nostalgia within the context of the Catholic faith. The song depicts a youthful period in the lives of the two individuals, where they engaged in reckless behavior by getting stoned, driving around with minimal provisions, and stealing from a local store. The fear of getting caught by the police adds a sense of excitement and danger to their escapades. The protagonist acknowledges that the only thing they needed to be afraid of was getting caught by the authorities. However, they find solace in their father's connections, implying that they are protected from severe consequences.

The chorus reveals a shared experience between the two individuals: constantly skipping out on communion. This act of defiance against the traditional rituals of their faith demonstrates their rebellious nature. The repetition of the phrase "Bad Catholics, weren't we, darling?" not only reinforces their bond but also highlights their recognition of their behavior as deviant. It suggests a certain nostalgia for their wilder past and the connection they shared.

As the song progresses, the focus shifts to the present. The protagonist attends a church event where they see the other person, who is now married and expecting a child. This encounter stirs up emotions of longing and reminiscence, as they had both lost something that they once shared. The protagonist expresses a sense of missing the excitement and freedom of their rebellious days, which has now been replaced by the responsibilities and stability of adulthood.

Despite their current paths and the changes that have occurred in their lives, the secret past they shared as "bad Catholics" remains a defining bond between them. The song suggests that no matter how much they have grown and changed individually, their shared experiences and rebellious nature will always connect them.

In essence, "Bad Catholics" explores the tension between rebellion and conformity within the confines of a religious upbringing. It delves into the longing for a past filled with excitement and freedom, while acknowledging the transformative power of growth and adulthood.