"Rural Route" by John Mellencamp tells the story of a tragic event that takes place in a rural community. The lyrics describe the disappearance of a young girl from a small town, and the subsequent search efforts to find her. The song highlights the despair and hopelessness that can exist in rural areas where resources and attention may be limited. The lyrics suggest that the girl's disappearance is alarming to the community, as an Amber Alert is issued and police swarm the two-lane highway of the rural route. The use of police dogs and the publishing of the girl's picture in the newspaper further emphasize the seriousness of the situation. However, the song takes a dark turn as it suggests that the community is plagued by issues such as crystal meth addiction and a lack of cooperation from the girl's father. The implication is that the father may be involved in the girl's disappearance, as a man he associates with also goes missing. Eventually, the girl's body is found by a lake, and it is revealed that she has been raped. A 28-year-old friend of the father is arrested in connection with the crime. The lyrics imply that the father had traded his daughter for favors, a disturbing and devastating revelation. The song ends with a plea to a higher power for forgiveness and deliverance from the bleak circumstances faced by those living in rural communities. Mellencamp asks for mercy and assistance in dealing with issues such as drug addiction and mental illness that may contribute to such tragic events. Overall, "Rural Route" sheds light on the dark underbelly and struggles faced by rural communities, highlighting the need for support, understanding, and compassion.
