"Hold On For Your Love" by John Hiatt is a song that tells a story of a protagonist living in a town or community that has been ravaged and destroyed. The streets are empty, buildings are abandoned, and the electricity is drained. The lyrics suggest a bleak and desolate atmosphere. The song hints at a history of the protagonist's family working on land that was eventually taken away by people from the city. Despite their efforts to rent and cultivate the land, it was stripped and ruined by those who came in. This loss and frustration are expressed in the lines "But they built it and they stripped it 'til it wasn't no good." Amidst this devastation, the protagonist holds on for the love of someone dear to them. It is not explicitly mentioned who this person is, but their love becomes a source of strength and hope in the midst of a broken world. The repeated chorus emphasizes the importance of holding on for this love, suggesting that it is a driving force for the protagonist's resilience. The song also portrays a sense of violence and chaos, with references to shots being fired in the square and a river flowing red with what could be blood. The lyrics depict a grim reality where survival is a struggle, and the protagonist expresses weariness and a desire for escape from the brutality of their surroundings. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the destruction and despair, the protagonist finds solace and motivation in their love for someone, urging them to hold on and continue fighting for a better future.
