Meaning of 'Rain on the Scarecrow'

by John Mellencamp

Interpretation

"Rain on the Scarecrow" by John Mellencamp is a song that addresses the harsh realities of life in rural America. The song tells the story of a farmer who loses his land and, with it, his livelihood.

The lyrics begin with the description of a bird in the barn and a scarecrow on a wooden cross. These images symbolize the farmer's loneliness and abandonment. The song emphasizes the importance of the land to the nation and the pride it once gave the farmer. But now the land is no longer able to sustain him and his family.

The chorus "Rain on the scarecrow, Blood on the plow" illustrates the harsh conditions under which the farmer works. The rain on the scarecrow symbolizes the failure of the harvest, and the blood on the plow represents the hard physical labor the farmer performs.

The lyrics also describe the problems the farmer faces. Debts make it impossible for him to buy seeds for the next year, and the bank auctions off his land. The fact that an old friend has to do this is criticized by the main character: "Calling it your job ol' hoss sure don't make it right". The lyrics also show how the loss of the land destroys the farmer's dignity and impairs his ability to do his work: "When you take away a man's dignity he can't work his fields and cows".

The song ends with the mention of 97 crucified families who have lost their farms, and the protagonist's feeling that he wants to die like the scarecrow in the rain. This illustrates the desperation and hopelessness that arise from the farmer's situation.

"Rain on the Scarecrow" is a powerful song that highlights the social and economic challenges faced by rural communities. It reminds us of the importance of supporting agriculture and protecting the people who have dedicated their lives to working the land.