High School
Nerf Herder Lyrics


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Don't bother going to class,
'cos nobody cares if you cut.
And it's not smart to experiment,
With being gay on your nuts.

If you ask her out and she says maybe,
What she really means is no way.
And if you try jerking off behind the backstop,
The team will be playing that day. (Oh god)

These are the things,
I wish I knew,
There are the things I wish I knew,
In high school
Yeah these are the things,
I wish I knew in high school.

Don't call the head jock a fag,
Even if it's true.
And don't hold out for that one special girl,
'cos she'll never have sex with you. (No way)

These are the things,
I wish I knew,
These are the things I wish I knew,
In high school.
Yeah these are the things,
I wish I knew in high school.

Don't let them see you crying,
No matter how it hurts.
And nobody ever got laid,
'coz they were wearing a rush t-shirt

These are the things,
I wish I knew,
There are the things I wish I knew,
In high school.




Yeah these are the things,
I wish I knew in high school.

Overall Meaning

The song "High School" by Nerf Herder is a satirical take on the harsh truths and unwritten rules of high school life. The first stanza warns against cutting class and experimenting with one's sexuality, suggesting that these actions will result in negative consequences. The second stanza advises against calling people names, chasing after unattainable girls, and crying in public, as these actions will only lead to embarrassment and rejection.


The chorus, "These are the things I wish I knew in high school," reinforces the idea that high school is full of social pitfalls and challenges that are difficult to navigate without prior knowledge or experience. The song captures the humor and poignancy of looking back on one's teenage years with the benefit of hindsight and wisdom.


The lyrics of "High School" are written in a straightforward, conversational style with a humorous edge. The song employs a punk-inspired sound with fast guitar riffs and a catchy chorus. The satire and irony of the lyrics are central to the song's appeal, and it has become a cult classic for many listeners.


Line by Line Meaning

Don't bother going to class, 'cos nobody cares if you cut.
Skipping classes is normal and no one really pays attention.


And it's not smart to experiment, with being gay on your nuts.
It's risky to experiment with one's sexuality in high school.


If you ask her out and she says maybe, what she really means is no way.
If a girl is not interested, saying maybe is a polite way to say no.


And if you try jerking off behind the backstop, the team will be playing that day. (Oh god)
Masturbating in public is inappropriate and embarrassing if caught.


Don't call the head jock a fag, even if it's true.
Name-calling, even if based on fact, is disrespectful.


And don't hold out for that one special girl, 'cos she'll never have sex with you. (No way)
Putting all hope in one person is not realistic, especially when it comes to sexual relationships.


Don't let them see you crying, no matter how it hurts.
Showing vulnerability in front of others can result in teasing or bullying.


And nobody ever got laid, 'coz they were wearing a rush t-shirt.
Wearing certain types of clothing doesn't guarantee sexual success.


These are the things, I wish I knew, There are the things I wish I knew, In high school
Reflecting on high school experiences and wishing for knowledge and guidance.


Yeah these are the things, I wish I knew in high school.
Reiterating the desire for knowledge and reflection on past experiences.




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS

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