Teenagers
Kevian Kraemer
The Angst and Confusion of Teenage Years
Kevian Kraemer's song "Teenagers" delves into the tumultuous and often confusing period of adolescence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by teenagers as they navigate societal expectations, personal relationships, and their own mental health. The recurring theme of not caring about expectations highlights a rebellion against the pressures imposed by adults and society. This defiance is a common sentiment among teenagers who feel misunderstood and constrained by the rules and norms set by previous generations.
The song also touches on the emotional turmoil that comes with growing up. Lines like "Heartbreak and mistakes and who's fucking who" reflect the chaotic and often superficial concerns that dominate teenage life. The repetition of not having a clue about what's important underscores the confusion and lack of direction that many teenagers experience. This sense of being lost is further emphasized by the line "Hide all your feelings 'cause they only make you weird," which speaks to the stigma around expressing emotions and the pressure to conform to a certain image.
Moreover, the song addresses the issue of mental health, albeit in a dismissive manner, with the line "And fuck mental health because it's only junior year." This reflects a common but harmful attitude that mental health struggles are not serious or worthy of attention during adolescence. The reference to becoming a "teenage dirtbag" to live a "teenage dream" suggests a coping mechanism of embracing a rebellious, carefree persona to deal with the challenges of growing up. However, the acknowledgment that it's "not as easy as you wanted it to be" reveals the underlying difficulty and complexity of this approach.
Overall, "Teenagers" by Kevian Kraemer captures the essence of teenage angst, confusion, and rebellion, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the struggles faced during this formative period of life.