The meaning and story of Mason Jennings's song "Going Back To New Orleans" revolves around the singer's desire to escape the pain and suffering of the world and find solace in New Orleans. The lyrics suggest a sense of weariness and heartache, as the singer refers to a heavy head and a sore heart. The line "Gonna swing my hammer, gonna stop this war" showcases the singer's determination to bring an end to the conflicts and violence plaguing the world. It reflects a call for action and a desire to make a change. The mention of "dying babies in the sand" and "hanging kings in ancient lands" represents the various forms of suffering and injustice found in different parts of the world. The singer acknowledges the brutality and inequality that exist and expresses his discomfort with it. The refrain, "Oh baby, baby, this world is not my home," conveys a sense of alienation and the longing for a place of belonging and peace. This line suggests that the singer feels out of place and seeks refuge in New Orleans as a means to find comfort and escape from the troubles of the world. Overall, the song portrays a yearning for a better world, a desire to put an end to war and suffering, and a search for a place where one can find solace and a sense of home.
