Meaning of "Girl In The War" by Josh Ritter

The lyrics of "Girl in the War" are deeply emotional and touch on themes of love, faith, and the fragility of life. The conversation between Peter and Paul is a metaphor for the internal dialogue and struggle that individuals face when confronted with the harsh realities of war and uncertainty. Peter's statement that "talking to God is Laurel begging Hardy for a gun" highlights the desperation and helplessness felt when searching for divine intervention during difficult times. The imagery used by Paul, urging Peter to "rock yourself a little harder" and imagine that the world is engulfed in chaos, demonstrates the need to find strength within oneself to survive and endure. Despite their efforts to cope, both Peter and Paul admit that their girls being in the war has left them feeling helpless. The repetition of "If they can't find a way to help her they can go to hell" emphasizes their frustration, anger, and disbelief that a higher power seems absent in times of crisis. The mention of the keys to the kingdom being locked inside the kingdom and the angels flying around unnoticed speaks to the idea that answers and salvation may be present, but they are inaccessible or invisible. The song beautifully conveys the pain and longing experienced by those who have loved ones involved in war, and the longing for a resolution or a way to protect them.