"Buffalo River Home" is a song by John Hiatt that tells the story of a person who feels lost and searching for a place to call home. The lyrics describe the struggles and uncertainties of life, using metaphors of airports, fog, and circling wagons to convey a sense of confusion and disorientation. The protagonist of the song is constantly on the move, taking off and landing like an airplane. However, they find themselves in an airport that is closed, symbolizing a feeling of being stuck and unable to move forward. The thick fog represents the uncertainty and unpredictability of life, with no clear path or direction. The song also touches on themes of identity and belonging. The narrator feels like reality slips away and they never truly know what it is that is guiding them. They are torn between different places and emotions, represented by the cotton fields and bus shelters of the South. They are searching for a sense of home and stability, but it seems elusive and out of reach. The lyrics also mention mixing up drinks with mixed feelings and the paint peeling, signifying the narrator's inner turmoil and the decay they experience. They are looking for solace and comfort, symbolized by an Indian blanket on a pony, but it remains elusive. The chorus of the song reflects on the transient nature of life. The protagonist realizes that there are only two things in life, but they forget what they are. They feel like they are either hanging onto fleeting moments or wishing for something better. The bearded lady and circus metaphors highlight the unexpected and unpredictable nature of life's twists and turns. Overall, "Buffalo River Home" is a reflection on the search for a sense of home and belonging in a world filled with uncertainty and confusion. The song captures the longing and restlessness of the protagonist as they navigate through life's challenges and try to find their place in the world.
