The song "Damn This Town" by John Hiatt tells the story of a dysfunctional family and their struggles living in a small town. The protagonist expresses their deep frustration with their hometown and their desire to leave. The lyrics indicate that the protagonist's brother was killed in a poker game, which highlights the dangerous and corrupt nature of the town. Their father was an alcoholic who eventually died due to his addiction, leaving a lasting impact on the family. The mother had to work hard to support the children, but it was a challenging task, resulting in the youngest son engaging in questionable activities that are not explicitly mentioned. The chorus, "Damn this town, I've made up my mind," emphasizes the protagonist's determination to leave their troubled environment behind. The song also touches upon the other siblings in the family. One sister is described as a thief filled with hate, who has managed to find employment with the state. Another brother has recently been released from prison and is now monitored with an ankle bracelet. However, amidst the turmoil, the song acknowledges that some family members have managed to find success. A couple of sisters have made it out alright, and one brother is serving in the army, fighting for his life. The lyrics suggest a longing for some form of justice or retribution for the hardships the family has faced, mentioning a potential "reckoning" or "righteous judgment" for the town's actions. In the final verse, the protagonist reveals their own personal information, stating that they are 58 years old and still living with their mother as if still a child. They refuse to let their mother share the details of the youngest son's actions. This could imply shame or a desire to protect their family's image. Ultimately, they cement their decision to leave the town, expressing their frustration with the circumstances they have experienced.
