Meaning of "Everybody" by John Prine

The lyrics of "Everybody" by John Prine delve into the universal need for companionship and a listening ear. The encounter between the narrator and Jesus symbolizes the necessity for human connection and empathy. Despite Jesus being a spiritual figure, he highlights the significance of simple conversations and the act of listening. The conversation about worldly issues such as morality, starvation, pain, and sin suggests that everyone faces struggles that they need to express to others. The message conveyed is that empathy, understanding, and being present for one another are essential aspects of human relationships. The lyrics emphasize the importance of having a confidant to share one’s troubles and emphasize the value of being there for someone in times of need.