Meaning of "Born in the U.S.A." by Bruce Springsteen

"Born in the U.S.A." is a powerful anthem that explores the hardships faced by Vietnam War veterans and critiques the American Dream. The lyrics vividly depict the protagonist's journey from being born in a dead man's town to fighting in a foreign land. The line "End up like a dog that's been beat too much" emphasizes the physical and emotional toll of war, as well as the lack of care and support given to veterans upon their return. The repetition of the chorus, "Born in the U.S.A.," highlights the irony of his patriotism and how it is met with little reward or recognition.

The song also addresses the economic struggles faced by the working class, particularly in industries like refineries. The protagonist's visit to the hiring man and the V.A. (Veterans Affairs) man reflects the difficulty of finding employment and the lack of understanding and assistance from those in positions of power. The lyrics "Hiring man says, 'Son, if it was up to me...'" and "He said, 'Son, don't you understand, now?'" convey the frustration and disappointment felt by the protagonist, who is left feeling abandoned and betrayed by his own country.

Furthermore, "Born in the U.S.A." subtly critiques the American government's involvement in the Vietnam War. The line "To go and kill the yellow man" reveals the racial undertones and the questionable motivations behind the war. The reference to the protagonist's brother fighting at Khe Sahn and the mention of a woman in Saigon further emphasize the devastating impact of the war, both on soldiers and on the people of Vietnam.

Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of despair, disillusionment, and alienation. The protagonist feels like a "long gone daddy" in the U.S.A., a country that fails to recognize and support its own citizens. However, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope. The driving rhythm and energizing spirit of the music suggest that music itself serves as a form of catharsis and a source of solace for the protagonist, providing a means of escape from the difficulties he faces.