Going To a Town

Rufus Wainwright's song "Going To a Town" is a poignant and introspective critique of America, reflecting a deep sense of disillusionment and frustration. The lyrics convey a sense of weariness and disappointment with the country's moral and political state. Wainwright's repeated declaration, "I'm so tired of America," underscores a profound discontent with the nation's actions and values. The imagery of going to a town that has already been burned down and disgraced symbolizes a search for a place that has already faced its downfall, perhaps suggesting that America has reached a point of no return in its moral decline.

The song also touches on themes of truth and deception, as Wainwright laments the lack of honesty in media and cultural narratives, represented by "The Sunday Times" and "nursery rhymes." This critique extends to a broader condemnation of American society's tendency to overlook its flaws and wrongdoings. The line, "Tell me do you really think you go to hell for having loved?" questions the moral judgments imposed by society, particularly in the context of love and acceptance, hinting at issues like LGBTQ+ rights and religious hypocrisy.

Wainwright's resolve to make his own way home and lead his own life signifies a desire for personal autonomy and a break from the disillusionment he feels. The song's closing lines, "I got a soul to feed, I got a dream to heed," emphasize a commitment to personal growth and aspirations, despite the disheartening state of the nation. "Going To a Town" is a powerful expression of disillusionment, yet it also carries a message of hope and determination to pursue one's own path and values.