Meaning of "Desperado" by Linda Ronstadt

The song "Desperado" by Linda Ronstadt conveys a deep sense of longing and concern for someone who has been living a self-destructive and desolate life. The opening lines, "Desperado, why don't you come to your senses. You've been out riding fences for so long now," suggests that the person has been engaging in risky behavior and making questionable choices for a significant amount of time. The term "riding fences" could be interpreted as straddling the line between right and wrong or being trapped in a state of indecision.

The lyrics go on to describe the person as being "a hard one" but also acknowledges that they have their reasons for their actions. They are chasing after things that may bring temporary pleasure but ultimately cause them pain. The line, "These things that are pleasing you will hurt you somehow," suggests that the individual may be seeking instant gratification without considering the long-term consequences.

The song warns the person not to "draw the queen of diamonds" because she will beat them if she can. This could be interpreted as a caution against choosing dangerous companions or situations that will only bring harm. Instead, it suggests that the person should focus on pursuing genuine connections and relationships ("queen of hearts"), as they are more likely to lead to happiness and fulfillment.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the person's fear of facing their own mortality and the realization that time is passing them by. The lyrics, "You know you ain't getting younger. Your pain and your hunger are driving you home," indicate that their experiences have worn them down and they are yearning for a sense of belonging and purpose. The song contrasts the idea of external freedom, which is described as "just some people talking," with the internal prison that the person feels walking through life alone.

The final verse delves deeper into the person's isolation and the feelings of emptiness that come with it. The lyrics describe how they have lost their sense of direction and are trapped in a perpetual state of darkness where they can no longer distinguish between day and night. They are losing their emotional highs and lows, indicating a growing numbness and detachment from life.

The song concludes with a plea to the person to come to their senses, to come down from their self-imposed barriers, and to open themselves up to love before it's too late. The line, "It may be raining, but there's a rainbow above you," suggests that there is hope and the possibility of a brighter future if they allow themselves to be vulnerable and let someone in.