The lyrics describe someone who is unfairly judged for having an attitude when in reality, they are just being true to themselves. The narrator reflects on past experiences in school where their attitude was misunderstood and how they struggle to break old habits of holding back their thoughts.

Meaning of "Attitude" by The Replacements

The lyrics of "Attitude" by The Replacements seem to explore the theme of perception versus reality when it comes to one's behavior and attitude. The narrator is self-aware enough to recognize that their perceived attitude may be seen as rude or confrontational by others, but they also acknowledge that this perceived attitude is a part of who they are. The mention of opening a bottle of wine and unleashing a can of worms could signify how certain actions or behaviors can lead to unexpected consequences or situations. The reference to holding back in school until turning blue showcases the internal struggle of wanting to express oneself versus conforming to societal expectations. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that having an attitude, whether positive or negative, is a part of one's identity that cannot easily be changed or ignored.