The lyrics depict the narrator's passion for street racing and his relationship with his partner Sonny. They travel from town to town, racing for money and shutting down their competition. While some do it for the money, the narrator does it because he doesn't know what else to do and feels a sense of emptiness. The narrator also reflects on his past romance with a girl he stole from another man, but their relationship has deteriorated over time. The song ends with the narrator and his partner planning to escape their troubles by riding to the sea and leaving their sins behind.

Meaning of "Racing In The Street ('78) - Badlands" by Bruce Springsteen

"Racing in the Street" explores the themes of longing, escape, and the search for meaning. The narrator finds solace and purpose in street racing, using it as a way to escape the monotony of everyday life. The activity provides him with a sense of identity and accomplishment. However, it also highlights the emptiness and lack of direction in his life. The mention of others doing it for the money suggests that some people are driven by external motivators, while the narrator is driven by a deeper need. The deteriorating relationship with his romantic partner reflects the consequences of his pursuit of racing, as he reflects on the sacrifices made for his passion and the toll it has taken on his personal life. The final verses represent a yearning for freedom and redemption, with the narrator and his partner planning to leave their troubles behind and start anew. The sea symbolizes a fresh start and the possibility of washing away their sins. "Racing in the Street" showcases Springsteen's ability to capture the struggles and desires of ordinary people and the power of escaping through passion and rebellion.