Meaning of "The State Of Massachusetts" by Dropkick Murphys

The lyrics of "The State of Massachusetts" explore the theme of parental responsibility and the consequences of one's actions. The song tells the story of a woman who had excuses for her shortcomings and chose to use them to justify her behavior. She was a victim of unspeakable abuses by her violent and distant husband, which led to her children being taken away by the state. The lyrics hint at the possibility that the woman may have lied or been dishonest in some way, leading to her loss of ambition and the judges taking away her rights. The chorus emphasizes the impact of her actions on her children, with the lines "The poison stole your babies, the judges took your rights." The song also addresses the role of the state in determining the fate of children whose parents have failed them. It questions whether the woman should be given another chance and underscores the importance of recognizing that the children's future is at stake.

The lyrics suggest that the woman's focus on her own victimhood and excuses has prevented her from taking responsibility and making positive changes. The line "If you can't and you fail, you won't be the only loser" suggests that the woman's actions will not only affect herself but also have a detrimental impact on her children's future. The theme of the song underscores the significance of personal agency and the need to break free from cycles of abuse and neglect. It also raises questions about the role of the state in protecting children when parents are unable or unwilling to fulfill their duties.