I Was Just a Kid

Nothing But Thieves' song 'I Was Just a Kid' delves into the existential journey of a young person seeking meaning and purpose in a world dominated by technology and fleeting experiences. The lyrics begin with the protagonist as a child, searching for answers and adventure through a screen, symbolizing the modern reliance on digital devices for fulfillment. The line 'I pulled the trigger and nothing happened' suggests a moment of disillusionment, where the anticipated excitement and satisfaction from these digital adventures fall short of expectations.

The song then transitions into a dreamlike state where the protagonist encounters a god and seeks answers, only to wake up and find themselves back in reality, unable to remember the divine encounter. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of inspiration and the difficulty of holding onto profound insights in the face of everyday life. The recurring theme of seeking and losing meaning reflects the struggles of growing up and the constant quest for something to believe in.

The turning point in the song comes when the protagonist finds someone or something that gives them a sense of purpose and belief. The repeated lines 'you gave me something, something to believe in' highlight the transformative power of finding meaning through relationships or personal passions. The song concludes with a reflection on the cyclical nature of life, where each generation goes through similar struggles and discoveries. Ultimately, 'I Was Just a Kid' captures the universal human experience of searching for meaning and the profound impact of finding something or someone that gives life a deeper significance.