Meaning of "Jacob's Ladder" by Huey Lewis & The News

The lyrics in "Jacob's Ladder" explore themes of individuality, resistance to conformity, and the pursuit of personal growth. The encounter with the fan dancer can be seen as a metaphor for an unconventional person or lifestyle that defies societal norms. The fat man selling salvation represents organized religion or any external force that tries to control or manipulate individuals for personal gain. The protagonist resists these manipulative attempts, asserting his autonomy and rejecting the preacher's version of salvation. Instead, he values his own path towards self-improvement and believes in taking things step by step. The repetition of "step by step, one by one" emphasizes the gradual progress and the importance of personal effort. The mention of climbing Jacob's ladder alludes to the biblical story in which Jacob dreams of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, symbolizing a spiritual journey. This reinforces the idea of personal growth and the pursuit of a better future. The lyrics also criticize the materialistic aspects of contemporary society, as the preacher encourages listeners to send money in order to join the chosen few. The protagonist proudly declares that he is not in a hurry to conform and rejects the pressure to strive for material wealth. Overall, "Jacob's Ladder" encourages individuality, personal growth, and the rejection of societal pressures.