The lyrics of "Hired Gun" by Chris Rea convey the feelings of being constantly in a state of uncertainty and fear, always on the run, like a hired gun. The protagonist has picked up dirty tricks to survive and feels a lack of trust towards others, longing for comfort and friendship but ultimately feeling trapped in their circumstances.

Meaning of "Hired Gun" by Chris Rea

"Hired Gun" delves into the inner turmoil and emotional baggage that comes with living a life on the edge, always wary of potential dangers and constantly feeling the need to protect oneself. The lyrics depict a sense of isolation and alienation, with the protagonist admitting to having learned dirty tricks out of fear of others. This fear causes a lack of trust, making it difficult for the protagonist to form genuine connections and relationships. The scars mentioned symbolize past wounds that still haunt the protagonist, serving as both a reminder of past pain and a shield against future harm. Despite longing for comfort and love, the protagonist feels trapped in a cycle of survival, resulting in a constant state of being on the run. Overall, "Hired Gun" paints a picture of someone struggling with their inner demons and the harsh realities of their environment, grappling with their own morality while trying to navigate a dangerous world.