"Victim of Circumstance" by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts is a song about feeling misunderstood, judged, and targeted by others due to circumstances beyond one's control. The narrator expresses their frustration and the challenges they face in life. The lyrics suggest that the police are constantly waiting for the narrator, implying that they have a reputation for getting into trouble or being associated with trouble. Despite not seeking trouble, the narrator acknowledges that they have had enough trouble in their life and are not good at hiding their true feelings. This implies that they may not fit into societal expectations or norms. The chorus of the song emphasizes the narrator's sense of being a victim of their circumstances. They feel misunderstood and judged by others, which leads to a bad reputation. The lyrics indicate that no matter where they go, they face the same judgment and lack of opportunity due to their reputation. The narrator expresses their frustration at not being given a fair chance. The lyrics also touch upon the feeling of not belonging and being rejected by others. The narrator mentions how those around them believe they have grown up wrong and resent them without any valid reason. This further contributes to their sense of being a victim of circumstance. The song also portrays the resilience of the narrator. Despite facing constant challenges and being shut out and laughed at, they remain unafraid to take chances in life. They have the courage to continue moving forward despite the adversities they face. Overall, "Victim of Circumstance" highlights the struggles of being judged and misunderstood by society, illustrating the frustration and determination of the narrator to overcome these obstacles.
