Boarding School

Lana Del Rey's 'Boarding School' presents a vivid portrayal of youth rebellion and the search for identity within the confines of a privileged educational environment. The song's lyrics depict a world where the expectations of 'coolness' and social status are intertwined with self-destructive behaviors and a desire to escape societal pressures.

The repeated lines about everyone from home and town perceiving the protagonist as 'so cool' suggest a recognition of the protagonist's popularity or notoriety. However, this external validation is juxtaposed with the internal chaos of engaging in risky activities, such as drug use and inappropriate relationships with teachers. The mention of 'pro-ana nation' and 'doing drugs to stop the food cravings' hints at struggles with body image and eating disorders, which are often exacerbated by the pressures of fitting into a certain social mold. Lana Del Rey is known for her cinematic and often melancholic musical style, and in 'Boarding School,' she uses this to explore the darker side of adolescence and the pursuit of acceptance.

The song also touches on themes of ambition and the American Dream, with references to 'Yale' and 'Wall Street,' suggesting that success is within reach if one conforms to the expectations of high society. Yet, the character in the song seems to be aware of the superficiality of these achievements, as indicated by the lines about being more than just a 'calendar kitten' and the aspiration to 'major in the art of sinnin'.' This duality captures the tension between societal expectations and personal desires, a recurring theme in Lana Del Rey's music.