"The Midnight Special" is a traditional folk song that has been covered by many artists, including Woody Guthrie. The song tells the story of a prisoner who is longing for the Midnight Special train to shine its light on him, which was believed to bring good luck and freedom. The narrator describes seeing Miss Rosie, who carries a piece of paper with her and calls out for the captain to release her man. The song also mentions the struggles of daily life, such as having nothing to eat and getting into trouble with the law. As the song progresses, it warns about the dangers of going to Houston and getting on the wrong side of the law enforcement officials. The narrator recounts the tale of Jumping Little Judy, a woman who brought joy and excitement to the world but also delivered the tragic news of the death of the narrator's wife. The song captures the hardships and challenges faced by individuals, as well as the hope for a better future symbolized by the Midnight Special train. Overall, "The Midnight Special" is a bluesy and soulful song that reflects the experiences of everyday people in the United States, highlighting themes of struggle, longing, and the search for freedom and happiness.
