17

Julia Michaels' song '17' is a wistful ode to the innocence and intensity of young love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dream where the singer and her partner are reliving the carefree days of their youth. The imagery of riding in a drop-top car, sneaking into clubs, and dancing at a crosswalk evokes a sense of freedom and spontaneity that is often associated with being seventeen. This dreamlike state is a stark contrast to the complexities and challenges of adult relationships, which the singer seems to yearn to escape from.

The recurring theme of 'no dark side for us' and 'no sleepless nights' highlights the idealized nature of this youthful love. In this dream, there are no arguments, no silent treatments, and no loneliness—only pure, unadulterated joy and connection. The repetition of 'can we stay in this dream like we are seventeen?' underscores the singer's desire to hold onto this perfect moment, where love is uncomplicated and all-consuming. The metaphor of 'summer loving' from the movie 'Grease' further emphasizes this nostalgic longing for a simpler, more passionate time.

Julia Michaels' musical style, characterized by its emotional honesty and relatable lyrics, shines through in '17'. The song captures the universal desire to return to a time when love felt new and exciting, free from the burdens of adult life. The repeated lines 'pin you down, kiss me now' and 'we can go in for another round' suggest a longing for physical and emotional intimacy that feels endless and exhilarating. Through '17', Michaels invites listeners to reminisce about their own youthful romances and the magic of first love, making the song both personal and universally relatable.