Eighteen
Kalie Shorr Lyrics

In the song "Eighteen" by Kalie Shorr, the lyrics delve into the tumultuous relationship between an older individual and the singer when she was just eighteen years old. The opening lines reflect on the emotional and psychological manipulation that occurred within this relationship. The question of "Which one did you fuck harder my best friend or my self-esteem" suggests that the impact of the relationship was deeply damaging on both the singer's friendships and her self-worth. The reference to the partner stating they were the only one dumb enough to love her highlights a toxic dynamic where the partner's affections were used as a means to control and belittle her.

The singer expresses a desire to break free from the role that her partner has assigned to her, rejecting the idea of living according to their script. The comparison of the situation to a performance, with the singer as the actress and the partner as the director, highlights the power dynamics at play. The lyrics convey a sense of realization and acknowledgment that the relationship is not healthy, with references to the partner being a narcissist. Despite this understanding, the singer admits that at the time, she didn't know any better and believed it was best to stay.

The mention of being bought beer because the partner was too old to attend prom with the singer illustrates the inappropriate nature of the relationship due to the significant age gap. The singer reflects on how she was still in high school while the partner portrayed a facade of coolness. The theme of manipulation and deceit continues as the singer acknowledges that she was fooled into believing certain things by the partner. The repetition of the refrain "This isn't normal, this isn't okay" serves as a stark reminder of the unhealthy nature of the relationship.

The final verses of the song touch on the aftermath of the relationship, with the singer seeing the partner with younger versions of herself and grappling with the fear that they will forever be chasing the fleeting allure of being eighteen. There is a poignant sense of loss and longing for a sense of self that was overshadowed by the manipulative dynamics of the relationship. The singer recognizes the twisted beauty in the lessons learned from the experience, acknowledging that love was present but tainted by the circumstances. Overall, the lyrics of "Eighteen" poignantly depict the complexities of a toxic relationship and the journey towards self-discovery and healing.