White Teeth Teens

Lorde's song 'White Teeth Teens' delves into the facade of perfection and the pressures of fitting into societal standards, particularly among teenagers. The 'white teeth teens' symbolize a group of seemingly flawless individuals who exude confidence and allure. The lyrics suggest that these teens are only seen at night, hinting at the idea that their perfection is a carefully curated image, maintained away from the harsh light of day. This nocturnal setting allows them to hide their true selves and present an idealized version to the world.

The recurring line 'We got the glow in our mouths' serves as a metaphor for the artificial brightness and charm that these teens project. The 'glow' represents the superficial allure that captivates others, masking any imperfections. The song also touches on the rituals and methods these teens use to maintain their image, such as dropping hairpins and giving out bruises like gifts. These actions symbolize the lengths to which they go to uphold their facade, even if it means causing harm or discomfort.

In the latter part of the song, Lorde reveals a personal confession: 'I am not a white teeth teen.' This admission highlights the artist's own struggle with fitting into this idealized group. She acknowledges that despite her efforts, she could never truly become one of them. This revelation underscores the theme of authenticity versus artificiality, as Lorde contrasts her genuine self with the constructed personas of the 'white teeth teens.' The song ultimately critiques the societal pressure to conform to unrealistic standards and celebrates the beauty of embracing one's true self, flaws and all.