"Crawling to the U.S.A." is a song by Elvis Costello and The Attractions. The lyrics depict a person's desire to escape their current situation and "crawl" their way to the United States. The song speaks metaphorically about leaving everything behind, including one's family, in order to find a better life in the U.S.A. The lyrics suggest that the narrator has seen or heard about a secret channel or underground route to reach the U.S.A. They mention crawling through telephone wires and going beyond the final station, implying that this journey is risky and not widely known. Costello sings that in order to make this journey, one must "leave your mother and your father," indicating a sense of sacrifice and leaving loved ones behind. The lyrics also mention not having to pay much but needing to bring lunch, possibly referring to the challenges and hardships faced during the journey. The song touches upon the idea of freedom and escaping from a suffocating environment. The lyrics mention catching "liberties" and not impressing someone, implying that the narrator wants to break free from restrictions. The line about Russians and Chinese being the only ones not on their knees suggests that people from various countries are seeking better opportunities in the U.S.A. Overall, "Crawling to the U.S.A." portrays a longing for a new beginning, the sacrifices one may have to make, and the allure of the United States as a symbol of freedom and better prospects. It reflects on the desperation and determination to leave one's current circumstances behind in pursuit of a brighter future.
