Song meaning of Darlene by Slint

The song "Darlene" by Slint tells the story of two people, a boy and a girl, who were initially liked and enjoyed by those around them. However, things took a turn when they began acting strangely and engaging in inappropriate behavior. The lyrics imply that they started exchanging tokens of affection and participating in actions that are not explicitly mentioned but are hinted at when the singer says, "I think you know what I'm talking about." 

The repetition of the lines "You know what happened to them? You know what they did? You know what they became?" suggests that their actions led to a change in their lives, and everyone around them knows the consequences of their actions. The final line of the lyrics, "We know what happened to them, we know what they did, we know," reinforces this idea that the aftermath of their behavior is widely known.

The message conveyed by the lyrics can be interpreted as a cautionary tale about the consequences of engaging in inappropriate behavior or actions that go against societal norms. It suggests that even though someone may initially be liked and admired, engaging in such behavior can lead to negative outcomes and a loss of respect. It serves as a reminder to think carefully about one's actions and the impact they may have on oneself and others.