Adult Education

Hall and Oates' song 'Adult Education' delves into the tumultuous and often confusing period of adolescence, particularly focusing on the high school experience. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and social dynamics that teenagers face, from peer pressure and romantic entanglements to the quest for identity and acceptance. The song suggests that the traditional high school education system falls short in preparing students for the complexities of adult life, emphasizing the need for a different kind of education—one that addresses emotional and social intelligence.

The song opens with a scene in a homeroom, capturing the mundane yet charged atmosphere of high school life. The mention of a boyfriend 'better left alone' and a 'wise guy' who could offer better advice highlights the often misguided choices teenagers make. The lyrics also touch on the loneliness and isolation that can accompany these years, as seen in the line 'it's only lonely spots he shares with you.' The recurring theme is that there's more to life than the high school experience, a sentiment encapsulated in the line 'Believe it or not, there's life after high school.'

The chorus underscores the song's main message: the need for 'adult education.' This isn't about academic learning but rather about gaining the wisdom and skills necessary to navigate adult life. The song critiques the superficial concerns that dominate high school life, such as fashion and social status, and contrasts them with the deeper, more meaningful lessons that come with maturity. The lyrics also highlight the inadequacies of the education system and the teachers who are ill-equipped to deal with the complexities of the student body. The song ultimately serves as a call to action for a more holistic approach to education, one that prepares young people for the real world.