"Joliet Bound" is a song by John Mellencamp, released in 1987 as part of his album "The Lonesome Jubilee." The song tells the story of a protagonist who finds himself caught up in a criminal situation and is eventually sentenced to prison in Joliet, a city in Illinois. The lyrics convey the perspective of someone who denies committing murder and proclaims their innocence. They express frustration with the legal system, with some individuals receiving lenient sentences while others, like the protagonist, face a lifetime behind bars. The reference to a "ball and chain" symbolizes the burden and restrictions imposed by the justice system. The song also explores themes of betrayal and rejection. The protagonist refers to a love interest who wants to leave them, but they predict that someday the person will regret their decision. This suggests a sense of bitterness and longing for reconciliation despite the protagonist's impending incarceration. Throughout the song, there is a sense of defiance and resilience despite the hardships faced. The protagonist acknowledges the pain caused by the police and invokes the idea that anyone who associates with them will suffer the same fate. Despite the injustices experienced, the protagonist maintains their innocence and refuses to be broken by the situation. Overall, "Joliet Bound" portrays a bleak narrative of being wrongly accused and punished, with themes of love, betrayal, and resilience interwoven into the lyrics.
