Strokes fans who are familiar with the band’s sound and style, found ‘The Adults are Talking’ as a breath of fresh air, blended with their signature sound. In fact, it sounds closer to 2003’s ‘Reptilia’ than dissonant ‘Future Present Past’ highlight ‘Drag Queen.’

The lyrics of “Adults Speak” seem to be directed at the performer because they attack those in authority. His intended recipient(s) remain unknown. One can tell these “Adults” are higher ups – corporate leaders or politicians based on their positions in specific communities.

The metaphors employed throughout make it nearly impossible to understand. The song’s lyrics are a bit complicated. Throughout reality, there are a few spots in “Adults Talk” where the lyrics are sung with an air of romance more typical of a love song.

The reader is not referring to romantic relationships for rational reasons. Interpreting the song lyrics meaning suggests more of a “we” against “them” dispute. And as you are undoubtedly already aware, “they” usually allude to forces, and “we” refers to regular folks like the audience.

Still, the whole interpretation of the song rests on conjecture. Nearly no sentences provide sufficient detail to determine its precise meaning.

Verse 1

In the opening verse, Julian Casablanca focuses on the idea of “strokes” that are not perceived by “them.” Most of the band’s criticism for their lack of credibility stems from the fact that they come from a more upbeat background than typical rock bands and yet they are still yearning to push and “tryin’ hard to get your attention.”

If you want to read this verse as a reaction from Julian, he states that stroke victims are blissfully ignorant of their condition. Another possible reading is that the verse refers to the elites and the masses rather than the organization. This interpretation of the song seems universally understood, suggesting that those in power view their subjects as not just deplorable but also a form of misfortune.

Verse 2

This paragraph is based on the reader’s experience with someone they had previously wronged. The availability of material to refute such an individual’s claims makes it possible for him to have such a realization, which was not the case in the past (i.e., pre-Internet). This chain of reasoning is directed at the ruler.

Closing Verse

The singer then speaks about the “shareholders” in an external voice. So, it is safe to argue that the target audience for this song is not just the political elite but also the top 1% of the economy.

And, to put it plainly, he does not give most of them much of a second thought. He consistently demonizes them and their political counterparts as dishonest tyrants.

What Does the Term “Adults Speak” Mean?

It seems that this is a theme that will be alluded to again in the title; the higher ups. When two or more people conduct a covert conversation with a third person, they are called “talking grownups.” Both talks are being kept secret due to an intriguing theory. They imagine themselves superior to others in intelligence, maturity, or other qualities.

In the midst of this, the citizens of Casablanca have taken a united stance against the ruling class. She is “confused” and fundamentally arrogant, in his estimation.

In light of Paul’s statement that he “will do nothing” with them, it also appears safe to proceed in this manner. That is to say he no longer has any confidence in the government.

Lyrics

They’ve been sayin’, “You’re sophisticated”
They’re complainin’, overeducated
You are saying all the words I’m dreaming
Say it after me
Say it after me
They will blame us, crucify and shame us
We can’t help it if we are a problem
We are tryin’ hard to get your attention
I’m climbin’ up your wall
Climbin’ up your wall

Don’t go there ’cause you’ll never return
I know you think of me when you think of her
But then it don’t make sense when you’re tryin’ hard
To do the right thing but without recompense
And then you did something wrong and you said it was great
And now you don’t know how you could ever complain
Because you’re all confused ’cause you want me to
But then you want me to do it the same as you

You were waitin’ for the elevator
You were sayin’ all the words I’m dreaming
No more askin’ questions or excuses
Information’s here
Here and everywhere

Don’t go there ’cause you’ll never return
I know you think of me when you think of her
But then it don’t make sense when you’re tryin’ hard
To do the right thing but without recompense
And then you did something wrong and you said it was great
And now you don’t know how you could ever complain
Because you’re all confused ’cause you want me to
But then you want me to do it the same way as you, and, but

I don’t, I don’t want anything
I know it’s not, it’s not your fault
I don’t want anyone
Always I do, it’s not for you

Ah
Ooh

Stockholders
Same shit, a different lie
I’ll get it right sometime
Oh, maybe not tonight
Oh, maybe not tonight
Oh, maybe not tonight
Oh, maybe not tonight
Oh, maybe not tonight

Hello?
Yeah, boy, here we go
And a-one, and a-two, and a-three
Here we go, friends
Hold on, I can’t-
Maybe that’s kooky situation
So, let’s go back to the old key, old tempo, everything
Okay

Source: LyricFind

Songwriters: Albert Jr. Hammond / Fabrizio Moretti / Julian Casablancas / Nick Valensi / Nikolai Fraiture

The Adults Are Talking lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Listeners that enjoy this song about Desire may also enjoy the song Solder poet king by Oh Hellos

Editor’s Note: This article was first published October 17th, 2022 and last updated April 5th, 2023.