Angel From Montgomery

Bonnie Raitt's rendition of 'Angel From Montgomery' is a poignant exploration of longing, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a life that feels stagnant and unfulfilled. The song, originally written by John Prine, tells the story of an older woman reflecting on her life and the dreams that have slipped away. The opening lines introduce us to a character who feels trapped in her circumstances, comparing herself to an old man who has also lost his youthful spirit. This sets the tone for a narrative steeped in regret and a yearning for something more.

The chorus, with its repeated plea to 'make me an angel that flies from Montgomery,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the desire to escape and find freedom. Montgomery, a city in Alabama, symbolizes a place of confinement from which the protagonist wishes to break free. The request for a poster of an old rodeo further emphasizes a longing for the past and simpler times when life seemed full of possibilities. The imagery of dreams as thunder and desire as lightning suggests that the protagonist's once-vibrant aspirations have now faded, leaving her in a state of emotional desolation.

The verses paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's daily life, filled with mundane tasks and a sense of emptiness. The mention of 'flies in the kitchen' and the monotony of her routine underscore her feelings of entrapment and hopelessness. The song's emotional core lies in its exploration of the human need for something to believe in, a touchstone to hold onto amidst the hardships of life. Raitt's soulful delivery adds depth to the lyrics, making the listener feel the weight of the protagonist's sorrow and her desperate plea for a sign of hope.