The song "Tennessee Plates" by John Hiatt tells the story of a narrator who wakes up in a hotel room and feels unsure about his current situation. He turns on the TV and decides to write a letter to someone, possibly a loved one or a friend. The news on TV reports about a dragnet or a police operation happening on the interstate. They are searching for a Cadillac with Tennessee license plates. This information implies that the narrator may be involved in some illegal activities and is on the run. The lyrics reveal that things have gotten worse for the narrator since he left California. He sees the "land of opportunity" as a curse rather than a blessing. It is suggested that the narrator is facing legal troubles as he mentions a trial that will have to wait. The song continues with the narrator recalling events that took place in Nevada. He meets a woman who seems to be in need, shivering in the dark. The narrator offers her a ride and they end up committing three bank robberies and stealing four cars. They successfully cross the Mississippi River and proceed to Memphis. Upon reaching Memphis, the narrator reflects on the corruption and danger that has accompanied their actions. They arrive at Graceland, Elvis Presley's home, and notice a garage filled with numerous Cadillacs, but no other car models. The presence of these Cadillacs represents wealth and luxury. The woman the narrator is with had once seen Elvis Presley perform, and ever since then, she has been living in a dreamlike state, caught between reality and her idolization of Elvis. The narrator acknowledges that he was never as successful as Elvis, but he doesn't believe that Elvis would care as he gave away Cadillacs to his friends. The song takes an unexpected turn in the final verse. It is revealed that the narrator is actually writing the letter from the Tennessee prison at Brushy Mountain. He is serving a sentence of five to eight years for his crimes. The narrator is resigned to his fate, spending his time in prison while reflecting on the choices that led him to this situation. Overall, the song "Tennessee Plates" delves into themes of desperation, chasing dreams, and the consequences that come with illegal actions. It explores the narrator's journey from uncertainty to imprisonment, ultimately conveying a cautionary tale about the allure of the criminal lifestyle.
