"Out Among The Stars" is a powerful and thought-provoking song by Waylon Jennings. The lyrics speak of a young boy who, unable to find a job in Texas, resorts to robbing a liquor store with a gun. Despite the imminent danger he faces, the boy experiences a sense of relief, knowing that his desperation has led him to take action. The song explores the struggles and burdens that individuals carry in their lives. The metaphor of travelers getting weary signifies the emotional and psychological toll that people endure as they navigate through their hardships and scars. The lyrics express a desire for these individuals to stop complaining and break free from their burdens, allowing them to "fly like eagles out among the stars." The narrative also highlights the impact of the boy's actions on his family and the wider community. The arrival of law enforcement is expected, and the boy knows that they are not just targeting him but the inner demons and struggles they themselves may have. His father's reaction, throwing a bottle in anger, symbolizes the pain and shame his family feels as they have to face the consequences of his actions. In summary, "Out Among The Stars" delves into the struggles of individuals, the choices they make when desperate, and the ripple effects their actions have on those around them. It urges listeners to empathize with these weary travelers and encourages them to break free from their burdens and soar to new heights like eagles.
