Meaning of "O, Pennsyltucky!" by Mischief Brew

"O, Pennsyltucky!" reflects the complex relationship between the narrator and Pennsylvania. The lyrics highlight the beauty of the state, with imagery of sitting on boat rocks and watching the fog roll over the bay. However, this idyllic setting is juxtaposed with the harsh reality of the coal industry and the struggles faced by the miners who work there. The mention of Three Mile Island, a nuclear power plant that suffered a partial meltdown in 1979, adds to the environmental concerns and potential dangers of the state's industries.

The lyrics also shed light on the poverty and hardships faced by the people of Pennsylvania. The reference to the Black Lung disease, which is caused by inhaling coal dust, highlights the toll it takes on the lives of miners. The narrative takes a darker turn with the mention of a boxer who gets caught by the police, suggesting corruption within the justice system. The fact that the police never fight him again after he is released implies that they are complicit in some way. These themes of struggle, corruption, and inequality paint a picture of a place that, despite its beauty, is filled with hardship and challenges.

Despite the desire to leave, the narrator still feels a sense of attachment to Pennsylvania. The mention of Philadelphia, their hometown, evokes feelings of nostalgia, even though it is described as "Filthadelph" and "Hostile City." This suggests that the narrator recognizes the flaws and difficulties of their hometown but still holds onto the memories and sense of belonging associated with it. The final lines of the song indicate a mixed feeling of longing to leave and a recognition that there is some safety and comfort in familiar surroundings.