"Angels From Montgomery" is not a song by John Denver but by John Prine. It tells the story of an old woman who reflects on her life and dreams. The protagonist feels trapped in her current situation and longs for something more meaningful. She compares herself to her mother and her partner to a grown child. The mention of dreams as lightning and thunder as desire implies that the protagonist's dreams are intense and strong. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and dissatisfaction with life. The old house burning down symbolizes the protagonist's desire for change and escape from her current circumstances. She yearns to be free like an angel flying away from Montgomery and wishes for a symbol of nostalgia like a poster of an old rodeo. The plea for one thing to hold on to suggests that the protagonist is searching for hope and purpose in life, as she finds it to be a difficult journey. As the song continues, the protagonist reminisces about a past love, a cowboy, who may have provided her with excitement and adventure. However, the passage of time has made those memories distant and unattainable, much like a broken dam that allows the years to flow by. The mention of flies in the kitchen symbolizes the mundane and stagnant nature of the protagonist's life. She expresses frustration at her lack of productivity and meaningful interaction throughout the day. The song's conclusion reiterates the desire for an angel and a poster, something to hold on to, to find solace and meaning in the hardships of life. Overall, "Angels From Montgomery" is a poignant and introspective song that explores themes of longing, regret, and the search for purpose in life.
