Meaning of "Travelling Back Home" by Johnny Shines

The lyrics of "Travelling Back Home" by Johnny Shines reflect the restless and unsettled emotions of the narrator. Waking up early in the morning, he searches for his shoes, which symbolize his readiness to embark on a journey. The blues, a common theme in this genre of music, serve as an emotional burden for the singer. He feels the need to escape this state of unhappiness and seeks solace through walking, which represents a form of release and self-discovery.

The absence of proper walking shoes is symbolic of the lack of preparedness or resources to embark on this journey. However, this doesn't deter the narrator's determination to leave, demonstrating his strong desire to escape his current situation. The idea of walking away from his blues suggests that physical movement can provide a temporary reprieve from emotional pain.

The mention of riding the blinds, or illegally hopping on a train, further emphasizes the narrator's desperation to escape. This implies that he is willing to break the rules and take risks in order to find a better place. The mistreatment the narrator refers to could be interpreted as personal hardships or societal injustices that have pushed him to his breaking point. The line, "I swear I don't mind dyin'," suggests a willingness to confront the ultimate consequence of his actions or circumstances.

As the blues come falling down, it becomes evident that the narrator's emotional state is becoming unbearable. The repetition of the phrase "My blues came fallin' down" implies a sense of defeat and resignation. The decision to pack up and leave the town signifies a turning point in the narrator's life. He realizes that staying in this burning town, metaphorically representing his current environment, will only perpetuate his unhappiness and pain.

In summary, "Travelling Back Home" represents the internal struggle of an individual who seeks to escape the weight of their blues and find solace in a new place. It delves into the themes of restlessness, seeking liberation, and the desire for a fresh start. The lyrics capture the emotions and mindset of someone who is willing to take risks and leave behind familiar surroundings in pursuit of freedom and a better life.