The lyrics describe the rural Midwest upbringing of the singer, where she grew up around strong and stoic men known as "barbed wire boys." These men worked hard, prayed regularly, and kept their emotions buried deep inside. As they age and pass away, the singer reflects on the unexpressed dreams and desires these men carried throughout their lives.

Meaning of "Barbed Wire Boys" by Susan Werner

"Barbed Wire Boys" paints a poignant picture of the rural Midwest and the men who inhabit it. The term "barbed wire boys" symbolizes the tough exterior these men displayed, similar to the impenetrable barrier of barbed wire. Despite their outward appearance of strength, the lyrics reveal the emotional repression and unfulfilled longings that lie beneath the surface. The reference to being "fenced in" by family and sin suggests the restrictions and expectations placed on these men, forcing them to suppress their true selves to conform to societal norms. The imagery of tears never shed and words never spoken highlights the emotional baggage carried by these men, reflecting on the missed opportunities and dreams left unfulfilled. The comparison to Atlas holding up the sky emphasizes the silent burden shouldered by these men, whose sacrifices often go unnoticed and unappreciated. Overall, the song serves as a tribute to the resilience and silent struggles of these "barbed wire boys."