The lyrics of "Joshua Gone Barbados" tell the story of cane cutters striking for better pay in Georgetown, Barbados, while the government and sugar mill owners oppress them and use violence to maintain control. The protagonist expresses a desire to escape the misery of the island, highlighting the harsh realities faced by the working class.

Meaning of "Joshua Gone Barbados" by Tom Rush

"Joshua Gone Barbados" reflects themes of oppression, inequality, and hopelessness faced by the working class in a colonial setting. The protagonist's longing to go to England, Trinidad, or Curacao conveys a desire for liberation from the oppressive conditions on the island. The song paints a vivid picture of the power dynamics at play, with government officials, sugar mill owners, and overseers using violence and manipulation to suppress the workers' attempts at bettering their situation. The reference to women crying and Sonny Child's hospitalization emphasizes the human cost of the struggle for basic rights. Overall, the song serves as a commentary on the injustices faced by marginalized groups and the exploitative systems that perpetuate their suffering.