The song "Shutting Down Our Town" by Jimmy Barnes is a heartfelt reflection on the decline of a once thriving industrial town. Barnes reminisces about a time when the town was filled with opportunities and people could find work easily. The lyrics describe the sounds and activities that used to define the town, such as working in factories or assembling cars. However, as time goes on, the town experiences a decline. The production lines and blue-collar jobs disappear, symbolizing the loss of livelihood for the town's residents. The town is being metaphorically torn down, both physically and emotionally. The mention of kids playing in the streets and fathers at the bar hints at a sense of community and the simple pleasures that are gradually vanishing. The narrator of the song, possibly Barnes himself, shares their personal journey of leaving the town, filled with anger and determination to escape their past. They reflect on the lessons learned and the strength gained from their upbringing, but also express sadness for those left behind. The song mourns the loss of the town's spirit and the changing landscape, where old folks watch as their once bustling community falls apart. Towards the end of the song, the narrator finally returns home, seeking peace and reconciliation with their past. However, they find that the town has been forever altered. The repeated refrain emphasizes the devastating impact of the town's decline and the irreversible changes it has undergone. Overall, "Shutting Down Our Town" serves as a poignant commentary on the economic and social effects of deindustrialization and the loss of a traditional way of life. It reflects the nostalgic longing for a time when the town was vibrant and hopes for a better future for both the narrator and the community they left behind.
