Meaning of "Chinatown" by Joe Jackson

The lyrics of "Chinatown" by Joe Jackson seem to convey the theme of searching for something elusive and not quite fitting in. Chinatown is often seen as a place where one can find authenticity, culture, and a sense of belonging, yet the narrator's experience is filled with confusion, uncertainty, and disconnection. The encounters with different individuals along the way highlight the challenges and complexities of navigating through unfamiliar territory and the internal struggle of whether to engage with the hardships and injustices observed or to simply move on. Overall, the song evokes a sense of longing for a place that may not exist in reality or may not provide the solace and answers sought by the protagonist.