The song "Back on the Corner" by John Hiatt tells the story of a person who finds themselves back in a familiar and difficult situation. The lyrics depict a sense of struggle and reflection on the past. In the first verse, the narrator talks about being on the corner and singing the blues. They mention seeing their reflection in the shine of someone's shoes, indicating a feeling of being overshadowed or outshined by others. The second verse refers to the narrator's seeing-eye dog, who is described as blind and hungry. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the narrator's own situation - unable to see clearly or make sense of their surroundings, while also feeling a deep longing for something more. The chorus mentions being back on the corner again, highlighting a cycle of returning to a difficult place in life. The narrator describes pitching pennies and dimes, indicating desperation and a need to make some money. They mention singing for their supper at a specific street corner, emphasizing the struggle to survive. The next verses touch upon the narrator's past struggles with taking multiple pills and seeking help from various doctors. However, the despair and loss are evident as they talk about losing their address, wife, children, and knife. The narrator expresses a sense of vulnerability and a willingness to protect themselves at any cost. The line "Something's sticking in my craw" indicates a feeling of discontent or frustration with a particular situation. They question why everything they do seems to be against the law, implying a constant struggle with authority and societal norms. The mention of a pigeon as a friend portrays a sense of loneliness and longing for companionship. The narrator mentions that the friend will eventually fly back home, leaving them once again alone on the corner. The following verses reflect on the narrator's journey to their current situation. They explain that their journey was filled with good intentions, hopes, and dreams made of silk, symbolizing beauty and luxury. However, these dreams were too heavy to hold and ultimately led to their return to the difficult corner. The final verses describe the presence of pimps and prostitutes on the corner, highlighting the gritty reality of their surroundings. The narrator notes that they understand what these individuals are standing there for, referencing a shared struggle or understanding. The mention of someone tipping them a dollar suggests that the narrator is a street performer, using their musical talents to make a living. Overall, "Back on the Corner" conveys themes of struggle, loss, and resilience. It reflects on the cycles and challenges of life, while also highlighting the narrator's ability to endure and find small moments of joy amid adversity.
