Jerry Garcia's song "Tears of Rage" is a cover of the original song written by Bob Dylan and Richard Manuel. The lyrics express a sense of betrayal, disappointment, and sadness towards a loved one, possibly a daughter, who has turned their back on the narrator. In the song, it is implied that the narrator and others had taken care of this person, potentially during their formative years, and had high hopes and expectations for them. They sacrificed their own happiness and well-being to support and nurture this individual, only to be met with rejection and indifference. The repeated lines "Tears of rage, tears of grief, why must I always be the thief?" suggest the narrator's desperation and confusion over the situation. They are struggling to understand why they are consistently seen as the one at fault, the one who takes the blame, despite their efforts to guide and assist. The lyrics also touch upon the disappointment of false promises and deceptive actions. The line "All that false instruction that we never could believe" refers to the lies and deceit that the narrator and others had to endure. They feel betrayed by the person they cared for, who had convinced them of their sincerity and love. The phrase "And now the heart is filled with gold as if it was a purse" implies that this person has become materialistic and is valuing wealth and possessions above genuine love and relationships. The narrator questions the authenticity of this kind of love that worsens over time, going from "bad to worse." Overall, "Tears of Rage" explores themes of broken trust, unfulfilled expectations, and the emotional pain that comes from a fractured relationship. It reflects the complex and often conflicting emotions experienced when someone you deeply care for chooses a different path, leaving you feeling alone and lost.
