Meaning of "Palestine Texas" by T Bone Burnett

The song "Palestine Texas" by T Bone Burnett seems to be a critique of American society, politics, and the state of the world. The characters mentioned in the verses represent different aspects of society, from criminals to social climbers, highlighting the moral decay and corruption within different societal spheres. The chorus, with its repeated mention of "Palestine Texas," could be a metaphor for a lost, idealized version of America that has been tarnished and corrupted. The verses also touch on themes of delusion, self-deception, and the need for a wake-up call or a transformation of the soul. The repeated refrain about the world being already gone suggests a sense of disillusionment and loss, perhaps reflecting the singer's perspective on the current state of affairs.