"Backlash" by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts is a song about the consequences of one's actions and the backlash that can occur as a result. The lyrics depict a sense of confidence and defiance in the beginning, with the narrator stating that they had it made and never strayed from the path laid out for them by someone else. They clenched their fists and never missed, indicating a determination and persistence. However, as the song progresses, the tone shifts. The chorus emphasizes the idea of a "backlash," suggesting that the narrator's actions have caught up with them. They bid farewell to the past and acknowledge that they can't turn back. The lyrics imply that their previous choices and behavior have led to negative consequences that they now have to face. The song also explores themes of self-identity and fitting in. The narrator questions whether they belong, hoping that others are wrong in their judgment of them. They describe how quickly one's resilience can fade and their emotions can become hardened, comparing it to a baby's first experience with exploitation. This implies that the narrator may have been taken advantage of or faced hardships due to their actions. The chorus repeats the idea of a backlash, highlighting that it is too late to avoid the consequences. The lyrics also suggest that someone who used to love and care for the narrator no longer feels the same. The line "Here it comes, here it comes I guess that's fair" indicates a sense of acceptance that the backlash is justified. Overall, "Backlash" is a song that explores the repercussions of one's choices and behavior. It portrays the recognition and acceptance of the negative consequences that can arise, including the loss of relationships and a sense of belonging.
