The song "How Bad's the Coffee" by John Hiatt tells the story of a person who has been working at a place for thirty years and reflects on their past. The protagonist admits to being oblivious to what was right in front of them and now finds themselves trying to catch up. They express the need for a strong cup of coffee to help them get through the day. The chorus emphasizes the contrast between the quality of the coffee and the pie. The protagonist is unimpressed by the coffee but acknowledges the comforting and sweet nature of the pie. However, they mention that even if they are called "honey" (as a term of endearment), they will cry, possibly indicating feelings of weariness or exhaustion from their long years of work. The protagonist expresses their preference for a stronger brew, revealing their determined and resilient nature. They also mention how their vision improves when drinking coffee, implying that it helps them stay alert and focused. The song suggests that brewing stronger coffee could even make someone angry, hinting at the intensity and determination of the protagonist. The lyrics also mention irony and faded glory, possibly alluding to the protagonist's own experiences and feelings of regret. The song contrasts their perspective with someone who is more refined and elegant. The protagonist acknowledges their own rough around the edges personality, contrasting with the finesse of the other person. Overall, "How Bad's the Coffee" portrays the protagonist as a hardworking individual who has to rely on things like strong coffee to get through their days. They appreciate the small comforts in life despite their rough exterior and express a mix of weariness and resilience.
