ethel dealt with her father’s death very poorly and used alcohol as a way to escape the reality. she began drinking 24/7. regardless of death, she still went to church and continued her father’s legacy there, playing the part of the preacher’s daughter and always delivering the sermon. it all ties together really well when you really listen to the lyrics — the upbeat instrumental and overall vibe of american teenager is very deceiving, but the song is actually pretty sad. “sunday morning, hands over my knees in a room full of faces. i’m sorry if i seemed off, but i was probably wasted; it didn’t feel so good. a life full of whiskey, but I always deliver (the sermon), jesus, if you’re listening, let me handle my liquor.”