Meaning of "Potter's Field" by Tom Waits

The lyrics of "Potter's Field" conjure a vivid and seedy world filled with enigmatic characters and dangerous situations. The nightstick, a central figure in the narrative, symbolizes both authority and villainy, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The imagery of whiskey, blind men, riddles, and shadowy alleys creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and treachery, suggesting a world where morality is muddled and survival is key. The narrator's willingness to divulge information about the nightstick, despite the risks involved, speaks to a complex web of loyalty, fear, and self-preservation. The reference to Potter's Field, a burial ground for paupers and unknown individuals, adds a layer of desolation and finality to the narrative, implying that the characters in the song are caught in a cycle of violence and deceit from which there may be no escape. Overall, the lyrics paint a grim portrait of a lawless underworld where betrayal and desperation reign supreme.