The song "What Then" by Guttermouth explores the experiences and observations of the narrator while being underage in Japan. The lyrics paint a picture of the narrator's adventures and misadventures in the foreign land, touching upon various aspects of Japanese culture and lifestyle. The song begins with the narrator reminiscing about being in Japan and engaging in activities like pickpocketing to earn yen. They express their curiosity in discovering vending machines that serve beer and wine, comparing it to finding a treasure like a pot of gold for an Irish person or a rare occurrence for a twelve-year-old. The narrator continues by describing their interactions with the locals, including a girl they meet who takes their money for some unspecified experience involving a coin-operated machine. They also remark on the diligent work ethic of the Japanese people, contrasting it with their own leisurely lifestyle funded by their mother's credit card. The lyrics mention the uncomfortable aspects of staying in Japan, such as short beds and unpleasant toilets. The mention of Aki Bono, the ex-sumo king, in his underwear adds to the cultural references while highlighting the narrator's feeling of being far away from home without a clear sense of direction. The song touches on the aesthetics and characteristic qualities of Japan, including the perfect color coordination and the prevalence of porcelain items, albeit sometimes topped with pee. The discomfort of the beds and toilets is tolerated, as they are primarily used for sexual activities. The lyrics mention the love for punk rock and the narrator's nomadic lifestyle, traveling the world and reveling in youthful rebelliousness. They describe filling water bottles with urine, perhaps as a symbol of protest or defiance. Overall, "What Then" by Guttermouth offers a somewhat satirical and tongue-in-cheek commentary on the narrator's experiences as an underage individual in Japan. It portrays a mix of cultural observations, personal freedom, and a desire for adventure.
