Meaning of "Lowside Of The Road" by Tom Waits

"Lowside Of The Road" is a song that embodies the raw and gritty storytelling style of Tom Waits. The lyrics, filled with vivid and sometimes surreal imagery, evoke a sense of desperation and struggle. The repeated phrase "rollin' over to the low side of the road" suggests a continuous descent into a dark and undesirable place.

The song paints a picture of a bleak atmosphere, with references to a black elevator, a moon that is red, and a ground that groans. These elements contribute to a feeling of unease and foreboding throughout the lyrics. The presence of Jezebel, who is naked with an axe, and the mention of the prosecution create a sense of danger and impending doom.

The use of contrast is also prominent in the lyrics. The line "The dice is laughin' at the man that he throwed" speaks to the futility and unpredictability of life. The image of beating a dog with a bone while it won't bite adds to the theme of hopelessness and resignation.

Overall, "Lowside Of The Road" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the darker aspects of life and the human experience. It speaks to the struggles, hardships, and potential for self-destruction that individuals may encounter on their own personal journeys. The lyrics suggest that sometimes, no matter how hard one tries, they may find themselves on a path leading to despair and hardship.