Understanding the Lyrics in Blink 182’s 'What’s My Age Again'
Blink-182's iconic song 'What’s My Age Again?' has been a beloved hit since its release in 1999. One line in the song, 'ADD Thursday,' has puzzled many listeners over the years. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of 'ADD' in the context of the song and explore the medical condition behind this term.
What Does ADD Mean in the Blink 182 Song?
The song refers to 'Attention Deficit Disorder' (ADD), a term that was used to describe 'Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder' (ADHD) before more recent revisions to the diagnostic criteria. In the song, 'ADD' represents the unruly and chaotic nature of their collective Thursday nights, reflecting the band members' youthful and free-spirited lifestyle.
The Evolution of the Term 'Attention Deficit Disorder'
Understanding ADD and the subsequent diagnosis of ADHD is essential to fully grasp the lyrics of 'What’s My Age Again.' Traditionally, ADD was a single term used to encompass the symptoms associated with ADHD: a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. However, with the introduction of the DSM-IV in 1994, the medical community separated the terms into 'Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder' (ADHD) with one being predominantly inattentive and the other predominantly hyperactive-impulsive.
Breaking Down the Lyrics
Adding to the confusion, Blink-182's frontman, Tom DeLonge, specifically mentions 'Thursday' in the song. The line, 'ADD Thursday,' encourages listeners to suppose that Thursday nights are the most chaotic or unpredictable. This play on words and the creative use of music makes the band and the lyrics even more interesting.
Deconstructing the Musical Elements
The chorus of the song, which repeats the phrase 'What’s my age again?', does more than just make a memorable catchphrase. It acts as a metaphor for the band's youthful ignorance and blissful disconnection from the passage of time. The disjointed, almost chaotic rhythm of the song further emphasizes the idea that the band is living in the moment, as represented by ADD.
Lyric Analysis
The lyrics 'I know that two plus two would be four, but I'll show you same old scenes and meet the new again' suggest a sense of familiarity and constant change, which ties into the theme of Thursday nights being a perpetual source of chaos and unpredictability. The line, 'I did it for the thrill, it keeps me in the picture,' can be interpreted as a metaphor for the band's desire to constantly break free from the monotony of everyday life, much like the hyperactive behavior associated with ADHD.
Conclusion
'ADD Thursday' in Blink-182's 'What’s My Age Again' is a clever play on words that captures the essence of their wild, unpredictable Thursday nights. By associating the term 'ADD' with their chaotic Thursday nights, the band creates a memorable and meaningful metaphor that reflects their youthful energy and freewheeling spirit. The term 'ADD' here is more of a cultural and contextual reference to their theatrical and unpredictable performances.
Final Thoughts
Whether you view ADD as a medical condition or a cultural reference, 'What’s My Age Again?' stands as a timeless reminder of the band's impact on pop culture. The song's enduring popularity and influence are a testament to its ability to capture the essence of youth, rebellion, and constant change.