Delayed Reaction Brats
Guided by Voices Lyrics


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Innocent or sweet
Shooting missiles in the street
They are deceiving
Seeing isn't hard but not believing
You've got the right to bite
The hind that feeds you
Delayed reaction brats
With all your multicolored hats
Are you excited?
But what's been building up
To be ignited?




You've got the right to fight
The hind that bleeds you, needs you

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Guided by Voices' song "Delayed Reaction Brats" are a commentary on youth culture and rebellion. The first two lines of the song juxtapose innocence and violence, suggesting that even those who appear harmless can be capable of destructive behavior. The phrase "delayed reaction brats" indicates that these young people are acting out against something that has built up over time, but their rage is still immature and unfocused.


The lines "Are you excited? But what's been building up to be ignited?" suggest that these youths are looking for an outlet for their frustrations and energy. The final line, "You've got the right to fight the hind that bleeds you, needs you," is an encouragement for these young people to take action against the things that are holding them back or causing them pain. The song is ultimately a call for rebellion and self-expression, but also acknowledges the dangers and complexities of such actions.


Line by Line Meaning

Innocent or sweet
Appearing harmless or cute


Shooting missiles in the street
Causing chaos or destruction in public


They are deceiving
Their appearance is not a true reflection of their actions


Seeing isn't hard but not believing
It's easy to witness their actions, but hard to accept the truth


You've got the right to bite
You have the ability to defend yourself


The hind that feeds you
The source of your support


Delayed reaction brats
Immature individuals who don't realize the consequences of their actions


With all your multicolored hats
Their colorful appearance doesn't add value to their character


Are you excited?
Do their actions and chaotic behavior bring them joy?


But what's been building up to be ignited?
What underlying issues have led to their destructive behavior?


You've got the right to fight
You have the ability to stand up for yourself and seek change


The hind that bleeds you, needs you
The source of your support also relies on you to survive




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: ROBERT E. JR. POLLARD

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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