Meaning of "Crossin' The Mississippi" by Eddie Rabbitt

The lyrics of "Crossin' The Mississippi" depict a man who is torn between his desire for a stable, respectable life, and the allure of temptation and passion. The Mississippi symbolizes a barrier between his mundane reality and the excitement and freedom he seeks. Despite his efforts to maintain a proper life, the man cannot resist the urge to chase pleasure, represented by the woman from Memphis and the devil symbolized by the burning desire and lack of control. The repetitive nature of the chorus emphasizes his inability to escape this cycle of seeking temporary satisfaction, even if it means crossing into a metaphorical "heaven" of excitement and indulgence. Overall, the song reflects the internal struggle between responsibility and hedonism that many people face in their lives.