Between Seventeen And Twenty by Elton John explores themes of longing, regret, and reflection. The song tells a story of looking back on the complicated period of adolescence, particularly the events and relationships that shaped the narrator between the ages of seventeen and twenty. Key themes include the bittersweet nature of youth, the passage of time, and the impact of past experiences on one's present self. Particularly poignant moments in the song highlight the internal struggle and nostalgia associated with these formative years, resonating with the listener's own experiences of growing up.