This is my favorite Replacements song. It's simple but so beautiful. Ever since hearing it, I assumed it was about the essence of youth; about being young, maybe of high school age. It could be about someone who overachieves in a particular area - academically, athletically, or both - and is generally loved by people for who they appear to be. But there's a lot more going on than meets the average eye. They put on a facade to an extent, attempting to always fulfill the demands and wishes of other people, whether it be parents, teachers, or peers, and as a result, they alienate parts of their true self. An older and wiser man understands the situation and sees certain aspects of the person that aren't normally put on public display - and the wiser person appreciates who they truly are.
This is my favorite Replacements song. It's simple but so beautiful. Ever since hearing it, I assumed it was about the essence of youth; about being young, maybe of high school age. It could be about someone who overachieves in a particular area - academically, athletically, or both - and is generally loved by people for who they appear to be. But there's a lot more going on than meets the average eye. They put on a facade to an extent, attempting to always fulfill the demands and wishes of other people, whether it be parents, teachers, or peers, and as a result, they alienate parts of their true self. An older and wiser man understands the situation and sees certain aspects of the person that aren't normally put on public display - and the wiser person appreciates who they truly are.