"Stolen Car (The Road's On Fire) - Pt. II" by Jimmy Barnes is a song that delves into the chaos and recklessness of life. The lyrics describe the protagonist's life as a stolen car, symbolizing the feeling of being out of control and directionless. The stolen car represents a life that has been taken from its original path and it now spirals down a destructive road. The song portrays the protagonist as someone who has lost their way and feels disconnected from their own soul. They have no destination and have lost touch with their true purpose in life. The thunderhead boiling under the moon and the motor howling in and out of tune represent the internal turmoil and chaos within them. As the road is on fire, it symbolizes the intensity and danger that the protagonist faces in their life. But despite the turmoil, they continue to roll forward without caution. The smell of hot rubber filling the air reflects their indifference towards the risks they are taking. The lyrics also touch upon the protagonist's reckless behavior and lack of concern for the consequences. Their heart is described as a live grenade, implying that they are willing to risk everything without caring about the potential damage. The protagonist acknowledges that they took a wrong turn somewhere in their past, leading them down a destructive and unfulfilling path. They are aware that the road ahead is on fire, indicating that their life is filled with challenges and difficulties. However, they continue to roll forward without seeking alternative paths. The reference to "licking up the white lines" suggests a drug or substance abuse problem intertwined with their reckless behavior. They are driving too fast, with the future and past converging on them. The protagonist feels a sense of anticipation, hoping for something real to come their way, but so far there are no signs of positive change. Overall, "Stolen Car (The Road's On Fire) - Pt. II" delivers a narrative about a person whose life has become chaotic, reckless, and disconnected. The lyrics create a vivid image of a stolen car rolling down a fiery road without concern for the self-destructive path they are on.
