The Growlers' song "In Between" is an anthem for a generation of young people who feel misunderstood and judged by older generations. The lyrics depict a group of American youth who are caught between traditional expectations and their own dreams and aspirations. The song opens with the assertion that the young generation exists as good youth, with their heads on their shoulders. They acknowledge that they are still dreamers, represented metaphorically as being in the clouds, yet distant from reality. Their dreams encompass a wide array of possibilities, symbolized by the reference to "red white and blue and every other color too," signifying their desire for diverse and inclusive experiences. The song declares their rejection of conforming to societal norms, encapsulated in the line "We don't want to live like kooks." They do not wish to be labeled as either squares or hippies, but rather see themselves as unique individuals who are proud to be American and have their own dreams. The repeated refrain, "Don't you worry sir, you don't need to understand, old man," emphasizes the generation gap and the inability of the older generation to comprehend the hopes and aspirations of the youth. The lyrics indicate that the youth's plans for life only go as far as embracing the present and living in the moment. They reject the idea of conforming to set life plans and instead choose to embrace life as it comes. The song expresses the frustration of the young generation being misunderstood. They feel that their uniqueness and spirit are unmatched by any other contemporaries and are determined to live their lives on their own terms. They convey the message that they don't need the understanding or approval of the older generation to pursue their dreams. Overall, "In Between" by The Growlers narrates the struggles and desires of American youth who feel caught between societal expectations and their own individual dreams. It calls for acceptance, understanding, and the freedom to live life on their own terms.
