In Howlin' Wolf's song "Driving This Highway," the lyrics tell a story of the singer's eagerness to purchase a Cadillac and his cautious attitude towards driving on the road. The song starts with the desire to buy a Cadillac, highlighting the singer's aspiration and potential newfound prosperity. However, alongside his excitement, the singer also emphasizes the need to be careful while driving. The lyrics mention a highway man who may cause trouble on the road. This can refer to law enforcement or any obstacle that may hinder the singer's journey. The use of the red light and blue light symbolizes the contrasting signals encountered while driving. The red light signifies stopping, while the blue light symbolizes starting or continuing. The singer acknowledges the importance of following these signals, emphasizing the need for caution and safe driving practices. The chorus repeats the singer's plea for the highway man not to block the road. This could be a metaphorical representation of the obstacles or challenges he may face while pursuing his goals. Despite these potential roadblocks, the singer expresses his urgency to reach his destination, indicating a sense of determination and a time-sensitive objective. Towards the end of the lyrics, the singer mentions going to the station to have his oil checked. This suggests that he is aware of the maintenance required for his vehicle and takes responsibility for it. The urgency implied here could be due to the need to reach a specific place or complete an important task promptly. Overall, "Driving This Highway" portrays a mix of ambition, caution, and urgency. It symbolizes the challenges and obstacles one may face while striving towards their goals and the importance of remaining cautious and attentive during the journey.
