Meaning of "New Delhi Freight Train" by Little Feat

The lyrics of "New Delhi Freight Train" by Little Feat tell the story of a troubled and restless protagonist, Jesse James. The use of Jesse James as a pseudonym suggests that the narrator is someone on the run or seeking a new identity. He is viewed as crazy by others, possibly due to his unconventional choices and actions.

The line "left them half-crocked, hard-knocks of black rock county" implies that the narrator grew up in a difficult and impoverished environment, which he wanted to escape. Riding on the New Delhi Freight Train represents his escape from his troubled past and his desire for a fresh start.

The references to being a "country boy without angels" and "without gold" suggest that the protagonist sees himself as an outsider or a misfit. He has been to "silver cities load of rainbows," which could symbolize the allure of material wealth and success, but he dismisses these as unattainable or not worth pursuing. The narrator's mention of pillaging, killing, and stealing in these cities implies that he has engaged in questionable or immoral actions during his pursuit of a better life.

The killing of Smilin' Jordan serves as a pivotal and regretful moment in the narrator's story. He acknowledges that he did something he "ought not to" have done but also welcomes the escape and freedom it brings. This conflicting emotion reflects the complex nature of the protagonist's character and his constant struggle between right and wrong.

Overall, the lyrics in "New Delhi Freight Train" speak to themes of personal liberation, the search for identity, and the consequences of one's actions. The protagonist's journey on the train represents his desire for a fresh start and a chance to leave behind his troubled past. The song raises questions about the choices we make, the burdens we carry, and the possibility of redemption.