Meaning of "Lousy Reputation" by We Are Scientists

In "Lousy Reputation" by We Are Scientists, the lyrics explore the narrator's reaction to someone else's negative qualities and reputation. The song reflects on the struggle between one's own personal standards and the temptation to judge others based on their reputation or first impressions.

The lyrics reveal that the narrator is surprised by the qualities that the other person openly advertises. Their surprise suggests that they might have had higher expectations or a more positive image of this person before discovering their negative attributes. This exposes the vulnerability and naivety of the narrator, who has been caught off guard by someone they once admired or respected.

Despite acknowledging that a bigger person might not be as compromised by this situation, the narrator firmly stands their ground. They state that they have never been a saint and refuse to start acting like one. This implies that the narrator is unwilling to compromise their own values or stoop to the level of judging others solely based on their reputation.

The repeated line "It's burning me up, I've heard it enough, I won't let your lousy reputation throw me off" emphasizes the narrator's determination not to be affected by the negative opinions or reputation of this person. They are resilient and unwilling to let gossip or rumors define their perception of someone. This can be seen as an act of self-empowerment and a refusal to let the actions or behaviors of others dictate their own emotions and reactions.

At its core, "Lousy Reputation" explores the theme of personal integrity and the importance of staying true to oneself despite external influences. It serves as a reminder not to judge others based solely on their reputation or first impressions, and to maintain a level of empathy and understanding.