Crooked Young

Song Meaning

The lyrics immediately throw the listener into a chaotic clash between fervent religious affirmation and aggressive, outright rejection. Phrases like "Hallelujah, I'm saved" are quickly undercut by the blunt command "Believe in no one!" This sets a tone of deep cynicism, where traditional paths to salvation are presented as superficial or even mocked. The central tension lies in this stark juxtaposition. The narrator, or perhaps a collective "we," seems to mimic the language of spiritual rebirth – "a dozen steps and 28 days" – only to violently dismiss it with "Fuck your faith, no one's gonna save you." This isn't just doubt; it's an active, defiant renunciation of external saviors, highlighting a profound disillusionment with established belief systems. The imagery of "speak in tongues / Blacker than the sun" is particularly striking. It suggests a form of communication that is both obscure and profoundly dark, a twisted reflection of spiritual ecstasy. The declaration that "no death can't touch / The crooked young" isn't mere bravado; it's explained by the chilling admission, "We can't die, we're dead inside." This internal spiritual death makes them impervious to physical demise, grounding their defiance in a nihilistic self-acceptance. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they articulate a powerful, self-reliant identity forged in the fires of disillusionment. The "crooked young" embrace their perceived brokenness, rejecting any external hope or salvation in favor of a fierce, almost unholy, independence. The repeated assertion to "Believe in no one but yourself" solidifies this defiant, unyielding stance, making the listener feel the weight of their chosen isolation.