Teething

Deftones' song 'Teething' delves into the tumultuous journey of self-realization and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The lyrics are raw and visceral, reflecting a deep sense of frustration and disillusionment. The opening lines, 'First you smile at lord, I found you first / Liquified inside you, But it hurts if I even see you,' suggest a complex relationship with a higher power or an idealized figure, where initial admiration turns into pain and disillusionment. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which oscillates between moments of vulnerability and aggressive defiance.

The recurring theme of feeling stuck and misunderstood is evident in lines like 'But that's too bad you get stuck with all alone! / Look at yourself you ain't no genius!!!' This could be interpreted as a critique of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to certain standards of success and intelligence. The protagonist's struggle is further highlighted by the repeated assertion, 'you want to find, you won't find me, / I'm coming home,' indicating a desire to escape and find solace in a place of personal significance, away from the judgment and superficiality of the outside world.

The song also touches on themes of materialism and superficiality, as seen in the lines, 'You got hair, clothes, the fashion, the cash flow / How the fuck you gonna tell me what you don't know.' This critique of materialistic values underscores the protagonist's disdain for those who prioritize appearance and wealth over genuine understanding and connection. The repeated refrain, 'Look at yourself you ain't no genius,' serves as a stark reminder of the emptiness that often accompanies such pursuits. Ultimately, 'Teething' is a powerful exploration of the pain and confusion that come with self-discovery and the rejection of societal norms.