Meaning of "The Pressure Is On" by Hank Williams, Jr.

"The Pressure Is On" by Hank Williams Jr. explores the internal struggle of a man torn between two lovers and the heavy burden of guilt and pressure that comes with it. The narrator admits to having someone at home who believes they are in an exclusive relationship, but he has also found a new love who brings excitement and novelty to his life. The conflicting emotions and desires create a sense of pressure that weighs heavily on the narrator's conscience.

The pressure is not only emotional but also physical. The metaphor of being ten thousand feet deep under the sea symbolizes the suffocating feeling the narrator experiences. It is as if he is trapped and drowning in the complexity of the situation. The pressure is described as crushing his bones, illustrating the immense weight he feels on his shoulders.

In the lyrics, the narrator also compares his emotions to a steam-powered train. These trains, which rely on pressure and steam to function, represent the overwhelming force that drives him. He feels as though he could pull a train that is miles long, emphasizing the intensity of his emotions and desires. However, it also suggests a lack of control as he is being driven by external forces beyond his grasp.

The pressure at home is a constant presence, reminding the narrator of the commitments and responsibilities he has towards his partner. Although he is enticed by the excitement of the new love, he feels the weight of the expectations placed upon him in his existing relationship.

Overall, "The Pressure Is On" delves into the internal turmoil that arises when one finds themselves caught between two loves. The lyrics explore the complexity of emotions and the overwhelming sense of guilt and pressure that can accompany such a situation. It highlights the struggle of balancing desire and responsibility and the toll it takes on the individual's emotional and physical well-being.