"Rain On The Scarecrow" by John Mellencamp tells the story of a farmer who has lost his land due to financial struggles. The lyrics depict the harsh reality faced by many farmers during the 1980s American farm crisis. The song begins with the imagery of a scarecrow on a wooden cross and a blackbird in the barn. It sets the scene of a once-prosperous farm that has now become empty and desolate. The protagonist reflects on his family's history of farming and the hard work that went into clearing the land, passed down from generation to generation. However, the farmer's situation has taken a turn for the worse. He reveals that the crops grown the previous summer were not enough to pay the loans, resulting in the inability to afford seeds for the next planting season. As a result, the Farmers Bank forecloses on his land. The protagonist feels betrayed by his friend Schepman, who auctions off the land, but acknowledges that it is just part of his job. The distressing state of affairs leads to thoughts of despair. The protagonist alludes to his grandmother, who sings religious songs on the porch, longing for salvation and a better life. The loss of dignity that comes from losing one's land makes it difficult to continue working and providing for oneself. The song also highlights the broader issue affecting many farmers in the community. Ninety-seven families in the courthouse yard have lost their farms, representing the widespread devastation caused by the crisis. The protagonist contemplates his own family's history and the feeling of helplessness that can arise in such circumstances. He compares himself to a scarecrow in the rain, symbolizing his own sense of abandonment and powerlessness. Overall, "Rain On The Scarecrow" conveys the struggles and emotional turmoil experienced by farmers during the farm crisis. It serves as a commentary on the fragility of rural communities and the impact of economic difficulties on individuals' livelihoods.
