17

Madison Beer's song '17' is a poignant reflection on the rapid passage of time and the longing for a slower, more meaningful existence. The lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia and regret, as the artist reminisces about her teenage years and the missed opportunities to savor life's simple pleasures. The opening lines, 'Seventeen, I can't recall a thing / A cry for help, but no one's ever listenin',' set the tone for the song, highlighting a period of confusion and a lack of support. This sentiment is further emphasized by the recurring theme of life moving 'faster than the speed of sound,' suggesting a whirlwind of experiences that left little room for reflection or enjoyment.

The song also touches on the inevitability of change and the impact it has on personal relationships. The line 'Ain't it strange, how people tend to change? / I hope she knows that I would never blame her' indicates a sense of understanding and forgiveness towards someone from the past, possibly a younger version of herself or a close friend. This introspective moment reveals a maturity and acceptance of life's unpredictable nature, even as the artist yearns for a chance to 'slow down' and appreciate the present.

Throughout '17,' Madison Beer uses vivid imagery to illustrate her feelings of disconnection and the desire for a more fulfilling life. Phrases like 'My memories, like black and white TV' and 'All my life I've never had the chance / To stop and smell the flowers' evoke a sense of lost time and unfulfilled dreams. The song's melancholic tone is underscored by the repeated refrain, 'Like life is just a game / But I don't wanna play,' which encapsulates the artist's disillusionment with the superficial aspects of life and her longing for deeper, more meaningful experiences.