Meaning of "Downtown (Akron)" by Pretenders

The lyrics of "Downtown (Akron)" by the Pretenders depict the city as a symbol of both hedonistic pleasures and potential for personal growth. The singer invites the listener to embrace the heart of the city, to engage in a visceral experience filled with lust, protection, and transformation. The references to a "fire fight of lusty boys in candlelight" and "rubber glove me when you love me" suggest a mix of danger and intimacy in urban life. The repeated calls of "D-d-d-downtown c'mon" create a sense of urgency and excitement, urging the listener to dive into the chaotic energy of the city. The bridge where the lyrics mention being chopped, adopted, and bent like a rubber dolly, or being raised and appraised like the Portage hotel, hint at a theme of reinvention and renewal. Overall, the song portrays the city as a place where one can shed old identities, confront raw desires, and find a new sense of self.