Meaning of "Diary Of A Workingman" by Blackfoot

The lyrics of "Diary of a Workingman" paint a picture of a man who has faced a lifetime of poverty and hardship. He is waiting alone in a room, hoping for a phone call that will bring some good news or a change in his fortunes. The mention of a tear in his eye and a pen in his hand suggests that he is documenting his thoughts and experiences in a diary, possibly as a way to cope with his emotions. However, his life takes a turn for the worse when a stranger takes his woman away from him. This event shatters his hope for a brighter future, as he now questions whether he will even survive another day.

The narrative then shifts to a cold and rainy night where the man desperately hopes that his woman will return to him. He is filled with dreams of a better life, but deep down, he knows that things won't be the same. Despite his optimism, he is drowning in a pool of despair, symbolizing the weight of his unfulfilled dreams. All he can do is cling to the hope that if he can make it through the night, tomorrow may bring some positive changes.

The lyrics take a darker turn in the last verse, as the man's pain becomes palpable. The mention of pain in his blood suggests a deep emotional wound that he carries within him. He yearns to be with his woman, but as he wakes from a dream, he realizes that it was only a fantasy. The harsh reality sets in, and he is left feeling defeated and overwhelmed.

The song's meaning revolves around themes of struggle, heartbreak, and the harsh realities of life. It highlights the hardships faced by those who work hard but never seem to catch a break. The imagery of the diary represents the man's attempts to make sense of his circumstances and find solace in writing. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that despite his efforts, he becomes consumed by his pain and contemplates taking drastic measures, as symbolized by the gun in his hand.