Meaning of "Student Visas" by Corb Lund

"Student Visas" delves into the personal experiences and reflections of a soldier who has served in different conflicts. The lyrics depict a sense of disillusionment and confusion surrounding the motives and consequences of war. The protagonist's family history is mentioned, highlighting the generational involvement in military service. From the Civil War to Vietnam, the protagonist's ancestors have participated in different wars, creating a legacy that the protagonist feels obligated to continue.

The song suggests that the protagonist's involvement in the conflicts was not entirely clear-cut. The mention of student visas implies a covert or unofficial nature to their activities. They were operating as "Contras," a reference to the paramilitary groups in Nicaragua during the 1980s. The lack of recognition or acknowledgment of their role adds to their disillusionment, feeling like they are forgotten or disregarded by society.

The protagonist wrestles with the concept of the enemy, questioning if they were truly fighting communists or if there were other motives at play. This ambiguity is further emphasized when their helicopter is attacked, resulting in the deaths of the pilots. The confusion and physical pain experienced by the protagonist parallel the emotional and mental toll taken by the war. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist continues to engage in combat despite the difficulty in distinguishing friend from foe, as they don't have a clear sense of purpose or direction.

The song also touches on the aftermath of war, both physically and emotionally. The protagonist mentions their injuries and their struggle to heal properly. The emotional scars of war persist as well, with the protagonist dreaming about the faces of those they fought against. The lyrics reveal a cycle of inner conflict, where the protagonist questions the rights and wrongs of their actions and feels a deep sense of guilt for the lives they may have taken.

Ultimately, "Student Visas" conveys a desire to break away from the violence and killing. The protagonist expresses a reluctance to engage in any more bloodshed, desiring a different path to move forward. The lyrics suggest that while the protagonist has had their fill of violence, if pushed into a corner, they will defend themselves and strike back.