Meaning of "Shredding The Document" by John Hiatt

"Shredding The Document" by John Hiatt delves into themes of evasion, concealment, and self-protection. The speaker seems to be grappling with a turbulent past, filled with questionable choices and actions they now wish to erase. The act of shredding documents can be seen as a metaphor for trying to rid oneself of incriminating evidence or memories. The speaker's refusal to represent the U.S. in the Olympics due to their character being "questionable" hints at a sense of shame or regret about their past deeds. The repeated insistence on keeping quiet and running on "radio silence" suggests a desire to avoid scrutiny and maintain a facade of privacy, even when faced with persistence from others. The mention of a sex change and a sister being a thief adds layers to the narrative, hinting at internal struggles and familial complexities. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of someone trying to navigate their past mistakes and dissonance with who they are now, opting for secrecy and silence as coping mechanisms.