The lyrics of "Joshua Gone Barbados" describe the plight of sugarcane workers in Georgetown who are striking for better pay, only to be abandoned by the government leader Joshua, who has left for Barbados. The sugar mill owner hires replacement workers and employs violence to suppress the strike, leading to misery and despair among the workers and the community.

Meaning of "Joshua Gone Barbados" by Johnny Cash

"Joshua Gone Barbados" is a powerful commentary on the exploitation of labor and the indifference of those in power towards the struggles of the working class. The character of Joshua represents a failing government that prioritizes its own interests over the well-being of its citizens. The song depicts a cycle of oppression where workers are disposable and easily replaced, while violence and intimidation are used to maintain the status quo. The reference to other islands like Trinidad and Curacao highlights the lack of options and mobility for those trapped in poverty. The lyrics underscore the themes of inequality, injustice, and the human cost of economic exploitation.