When I Get Old

Descendents' song 'When I Get Old' delves into the uncertainties and anxieties associated with aging. The lyrics reflect a youthful perspective, questioning what life will be like in the future. The singer wonders if they will still engage in the activities they love, like riding a bike around town, or if they will succumb to a more sedentary and conventional lifestyle. This fear of becoming 'fossilized' and losing one's individuality is a central theme, highlighting a desire to remain vibrant and unique even as time progresses.

The song also touches on the fear of losing one's rebellious spirit. The singer questions whether they will still engage in youthful behaviors, like kissing their girlfriend and hating authority figures, or if they will be pressured to conform to societal expectations. This tension between maintaining one's identity and adapting to the norms of adulthood is a common struggle, especially for those who have always valued their independence and nonconformity.

Additionally, 'When I Get Old' explores the fear of becoming irrelevant or disconnected from one's past. The singer worries about becoming someone who only reminisces about the 'old days' and watches TV, rather than continuing to live an active and fulfilling life. This fear of stagnation and the desire to 'never burn out, not fade away' underscores a longing for a meaningful existence, regardless of age. The song captures the universal anxiety of aging while also celebrating the hope of staying true to oneself.