We Are Young

Supergrass's 'We Are Young' is a vibrant anthem that captures the essence of youth and the carefree spirit that often accompanies it. The song, with its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, encapsulates the feeling of invincibility and the desire to live life to the fullest that is characteristic of young adulthood. The lyrics speak to the everyday experiences of young people, from maintaining appearances ('keep our teeth nice and clean') to socializing with friends and enjoying the moment ('see our friends, see the sights, feel alright').

The repeated questioning 'Are we like you?' suggests a generational gap, where the youth are trying to understand their place in the world in relation to the older generation. The song's protagonist seems to be seeking validation while simultaneously asserting their uniqueness ('We are strange in our worlds'). This duality reflects the common youthful struggle between wanting to fit in and the desire to stand out. The mention of 'going green' could be interpreted as a nod to the environmental consciousness that began to emerge more prominently among young people at the time.

The carefree nature of the lyrics, with references to casual smoking ('smoke a fag, put it out'), impulsive decisions ('got some cash, bought some wheels'), and the acceptance of making mistakes ('lost control, hit a wall, but we're alright'), all serve to paint a picture of a generation that is unapologetically living for the present. The song doesn't just describe the recklessness often associated with youth, but also a sense of resilience and the ability to bounce back ('but we're alright'), emphasizing an optimistic outlook despite the challenges faced.