Sixteen
Sebadoh Lyrics

The song "Sixteen" by Sebadoh is a reflection on the generational gap between the singer and the subject, who is sixteen years old. The lyrics elicit a sense of confusion and disconnect felt by the singer, who is now all grown up and has gained knowledge and experience that is not shared by the subject. The line "sweep the dirt under your rug, you're on your drug, and then it hits me, it's paregoric in my head, I'm all doped-up and just a baby" conveys the idea that the subject is blinded by their drug use and naivety, while the singer is overwhelmed by their own realizations of the world around them.

As the song continues, the singer realizes that they cannot hear the subject and vice versa. Despite their close proximity, they are unable to relate to one another. The lines "my passion's locked inside me, divulging your imperative, for during, though, it's easy" suggest that while the singer may have love and passion inside, they are unable to communicate it to the subject who is more concerned with momentary pleasure. The line "a hundred years of therapy, thanks, thanks anyway, I'll soon be leaving" implies that the singer recognizes the vast differences between them and feels that there is nothing they can do to bridge that gap.

Overall, the lyrics of the song "Sixteen" explore the theme of generational divide and the frustrations that come with being unable to relate to those who are significantly younger or older.