The Grateful Dead's song "Mexicali Blues" tells the story of a man's experiences and downfall in the town of Mexicali. The protagonist finds himself lounging in an old saloon with a peso in his hand, observing the lively street filled with flies, children, and black-eyed girls. He encounters a young boy who wishes to shine his shoes. The man reflects on his journey, realizing he is three days away from Bakersfield and unsure of why he came to Mexicali in the first place. Perhaps he came to avoid the responsibilities and burdens of life. Instead, he finds solace in drinking alcohol and being in the company of a young girl who is only fourteen, despite her inappropriate age. The lyrics question what a man has to lose when faced with the temptation of the devil and his desire to take everything away. The narrator advises cherishing one's thoughts and maintaining control over alcohol intake because, in his current state, thinking and drinking are all he has left. The story takes a turn when a man rides into town, potentially representing some sort of authority figure. Billy Jean, the girl the protagonist has been involved with, reveals that this newcomer will claim her if he doesn't use his gun. Feeling cornered, he goes out into the dusty streets, consumed by revenge. He shoots and kills the stranger without provocation, trading the death penalty (the gallows) for a life marked by guilt and regret. In summary, "Mexicali Blues" tells a cautionary tale of a man who loses himself in a town far from home. His poor choices, fueled by his escapism through alcohol and inappropriate relationships, ultimately lead to irreversible consequences. The song explores themes of temptation, consequence, regret, and the fine line between right and wrong.
