Meaning of Seventeen by The Weeknd

The Weeknd's "Seventeen" is a powerful and introspective song that delves into the complexities of relationships, fame, and self-reflection. While the meaning of the song is open to interpretation, it explores the inner struggles of the narrator as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and the impact they have on his loved ones.One standout lyric in "Seventeen" is "Girl, I been bad again, Girl, I been bad again, 'Cause with this money comes problems, And with these problems come solutions, And I use 'em." This lyric highlights the theme of wealth and its influence on the narrator's behavior. It speaks to the temptations that come with financial success, leading him to make decisions that may not align with his values. The line also touches on the idea of using solutions to problems, hinting at a possible pattern of escapism and avoidance.Another noteworthy lyric is "I'm feelin' everything before I get up." This line hints at the struggles of the narrator to confront his emotions and face the consequences of his actions. It suggests that he may be using distractions or substances to numb his feelings, much like the recurring theme in The Weeknd's music. This theme of emotional suppression and avoidance ties back to the overarching theme of the song, exploring the turmoil and unease experienced by the narrator.One unexpected theme that can be derived from the lyrics of "Seventeen" is the exploration of the fleeting nature of youth and the pressures that come with growing older. The repetition of "All alone" in the intro creates a sense of longing and isolation, possibly symbolizing the narrator's desire to hold onto his youth and the carefree mindset that came with it. This theme is further emphasized in the bridge of the song with the inclusion of Japanese lyrics, adding an additional layer of cultural references and evoking a sense of nostalgia.Furthermore, the inclusion of the verse "Things you say, I know you want to do, Baby you know" suggests a theme of miscommunication and unspoken desires within a relationship. This lyric implies that the narrator recognizes the unspoken intentions or desires of his partner but struggles to address them directly. It speaks to the complexity of human connections and the challenges of understanding and expressing one's emotions.In summary, "Seventeen" is a multifaceted song with an array of themes that revolve around the consequences of one's actions, the pressures of fame, emotional suppression, the fleeting nature of youth, and the complexities of relationships. The Weeknd artfully weaves these themes together through his thoughtful and introspective lyrics, creating a powerful and relatable narrative for listeners to reflect upon.