Meaning of "Barely Legal" by The Strokes

"Barely Legal" can be interpreted as a rebellious anthem, with the lyrics reflecting the narrator's desire to break free from societal norms and embrace a life of excitement and unpredictability. The song opens with the admission of not taking shortcuts and spending hard-earned money, hinting at a refusal to conform to the easy way out. The line "Oh mama running out of luck, but like my sister, don't give a fuck" suggests a disregard for parental expectations and a shared rebellious spirit among siblings.

The chorus reveals a darker desire within the narrator - a desire to steal innocence. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for a desire to disrupt the ordinary, challenge conventions, and experience something more meaningful. The narrator craves a life that defies logic, where strange manners are embraced and new experiences are sought. The line "Why won't you wear your new trench coat?" could signify a longing for a partner who shares this rebellious spirit, challenging societal expectations together.

The lyrics also touch on the narrator's self-reflection and the realization that they could have worked harder or made different choices. The lines "I should've worked much harder, I should've just not bothered" convey a feeling of regret or missed opportunities. The narrator acknowledges their reluctance to show up on weekdays and refers to this as something learned yesterday, suggesting a pattern of avoiding responsibility or following expectations.

The song delves into relationships, with the narrator expressing a desire to turn someone down and turn them around. This could represent a desire for control and power within a romantic relationship, wanting to challenge and change the dynamics. The lyrics also touch on the idea of wanting it all but struggling to figure out what exactly that entails. This could represent a yearning for fulfillment and excitement, and a struggle to define one's desires and purpose.

The latter part of the song explores the complexity of human connections. The line "They ordered me to make mistakes" implies that external forces or societal pressures can influence the decisions we make. The narrator finds solace in being together, reminiscent of the beginning, suggesting a cyclical nature to relationships. The line "The things we did, the things you hide" suggests a deeper understanding and acceptance of one another, while the final line "It's between you and I" highlights the intimacy and secrecy of their connection.

Overall, "Barely Legal" portrays rebellion, the longing for excitement and purpose, the complexities of relationships, and the tendency to make mistakes and learn from them. The song captures a spirit of defiance, a yearning for more, and a recognition of the intricacies of human connections.