"Seventeen" by Jimmy Eat World tells the story of a person who feels trapped in their current circumstances and longs for something more. The lyrics describe a sense of being stuck in familiar comforts but lacking a sense of purpose or direction. The person is portrayed as trying to project a confident and invincible image, yet deep down feeling uncertain and lost. The song suggests that the protagonist is in a relationship where their partner is being taken away from them, possibly by outside forces or influences. They express a fear of losing the person they care about and the pain it causes. The lyrics convey the idea that despite the struggle and hardship, the protagonist still desires to maintain a connection with their partner. The line "Hang loose, my friend, don't walk away from me, 'cause I really think you're cool" implies a plea for the person not to abandon their relationship despite the difficulties they face. It demonstrates the protagonist's willingness to endure the pain and uncertainty in order to salvage the connection with their partner. Overall, "Seventeen" explores the themes of longing, loss, and the struggle to hold onto something meaningful in a changing and uncertain world.
