I Was A Teenage Monster
The Keytones Lyrics

The lyrics to The Keytones's song "I Was A Teenage Monster" depict the transformation of the singer from a rebellious and unconventional teenager into a more "clean-cut" individual, all thanks to the influence of a teenage angel. The opening lines set the tone, emphasizing the singer's monstrous appearance and behavior. The repetition of "Bah-ooh, ooh!" reinforces the idea of being an outsider or outcast. Through the description of his appearance, with "eighty kinds of hair all over my face" and unkempt clothing, the singer portrays himself as a social outcast or a misfit.

However, everything changes when he encounters the teenage angel, described as "beautiful." Her initial reaction to seeing the singer suggests that he is far from attractive, as she sees him as "something the cat dragged in." This negative perception prompts the singer to change his appearance and behavior. He undergoes a transformation, which includes cutting his hair, scrubbing his face, and conforming to societal norms. The repetition of "Bah-ooh, ooh!" throughout the song serves as a reminder of his previous monstrous self.

As the song progresses, the teenage angel's influence becomes more significant. The lines, "She made me clip my hair, scrub my face, made me a member of the 'humane' race," imply that she guides him towards becoming a better person, someone accepted by society. The use of the mirror as a symbol highlights the transformation process, as the singer questions his new appearance, seeking validation: "Mirror mirror, look and see, is that a clean-cut, clean-cut me?"

The final verses suggest that the teenage angel's impact on the singer goes beyond physical changes. When she "took her lips and mixed them with mine," it symbolizes a deeper emotional connection, which leads to the demise of "old Frankenstein" as he goes "up in smoke." This can be interpreted as a metaphorical death of the monster within him, replaced by a newfound sense of acceptance and cleanliness.

Overall, "I Was A Teenage Monster" narrates the story of a troubled teenager's transformation through the influence of a caring and compassionate individual. It highlights the power of love and acceptance in bringing out the best in people and helping them grow.