The song begins with the student expressing their feelings of isolation and inadequacy, describing themselves as "a loner, a thinker." They mention being bullied and picked on by their peers, which causes them to build up anger and resentment. The chorus reflects their contemplation of violence, as they sing about putting on their "pumped up kicks" and considering shooting up the school.
Throughout the song, the student provides glimpses into their troubled state of mind. They talk about feeling "out of control" and having a "brain full of f***." The lyrics also express a sense of detachment and indifference towards their actions, as the student describes the potential shooting in a matter-of-fact manner.
The bridge of the song offers a brief moment of self-awareness and regret. The student acknowledges the destructive consequences of their actions, singing, "All the damage in your path." However, this moment of clarity is quickly overshadowed by a return to the dark, violent thoughts.
The song ends with the student committing to their plan to carry out the shooting, leaving the listener with a sense of foreboding and tragedy.
"Pumped Up Kicks" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of school shootings and the factors that can lead troubled individuals to resort to violence. It raises important questions about mental health, bullying, and the societal factors that contribute to these tragedies.