Meaning of "Lawyers in Love" by Jackson Browne

"Lawyers in Love" reflects the disillusionment and dissatisfaction Jackson Browne feels with the state of society during the 1980s. The lyrics draw attention to the shallow preoccupations and materialistic lifestyles of the people around him, as symbolized by their designer jeans. The screams and strangled cries Browne references represent the underlying issues and injustices present in the world, which are often ignored or overshadowed by the pursuit of wealth and success.

The reference to God sending spaceships to America the beautiful can be interpreted as a critique of the way American society is driven by consumption and entertainment. The people embodied by the phrase "we" are depicted as dutifully waiting for World War III, suggesting their ignorance and indifference towards important global affairs. Browne points out the ironic contrast between the triviality of their lives, spent watching sitcoms like "Happy Days," and the serious issues unfolding around them.

The mention of lawyers in love alludes to the idea that they, too, are caught up in this superficial pursuit of happiness and success. Instead of focusing on justice and truth, these lawyers are more concerned with personal gain, wealth, and maintaining their prestigious lifestyles. Browne sees this as a reflection of the larger societal problem, where people are driven by self-interest and personal pleasure, often at the expense of others.

In the second verse, Browne addresses the political tensions of the time, particularly between the United States and the USSR. The news from Washington and the escape of the Russians demonstrate how easily people can become distracted and unaware of pressing global issues. The line "Now we've got all this room, we've even got the moon" can be read as a sarcastic reference to the vastness of space and the potential for progress humanity possesses while being limited by their own greed and ignorance.

The mention of the USSR opening as vacation land for lawyers in love further emphasizes the idea that the pursuit of pleasure and materialistic desires transcends political boundaries and divides. It shows that even in a world full of conflict, lawyers and those in positions of power are still primarily concerned with their own personal gratification.

In essence, "Lawyers in Love" is a critique of the superficiality and self-absorption that dominates society, preventing people from truly empathizing with and addressing the underlying issues of the world. Browne argues that until individuals prioritize justice, compassion, and the well-being of others over personal gain, society will continue to be plagued by greed and disconnection.