Commencing In Chattanooga (Reprise)

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an escape, framed by the repetitive chant of "Commencing in Chattanooga" and the steady rhythm of "On the southern railroad line." The initial spoken lines establish a sense of urgency and pursuit, with characters asking about someone named Haywood's whereabouts and whether he's been caught. This sets up a narrative of flight and evasion, with the railroad line serving as the clear path to freedom. The central tension lies in Haywood's desperate flight from an unseen pursuer, implied to be the devil himself. The lyrics describe him as slipping past this antagonist "as he looked the other way," suggesting a narrow escape. The devil's reaction, "burning mad 'cause he's got hell to pay," underscores the significance of Haywood's departure and the anger of his captor. This creates a dramatic conflict between freedom and damnation, with the railroad track as the literal and metaphorical escape route. The imagery of Haywood's escape is particularly striking. He's described as "racin' down the track" and "flyin' like a black bird," emphasizing speed and determination. The contrast between this forward momentum and the implied threat of "dogs a'barkin'" as he "crosses Tennessee" heightens the sense of peril. Yet, the lyrics shift to a more hopeful, almost celebratory tone with Haywood "livin' like a sultan" and indulging in simple pleasures, suggesting a triumphant arrival or a dream of future freedom. What makes these lyrics resonate is the blend of immediate peril and aspirational imagery. The repeated, almost incantatory, phrases create a sense of relentless movement, mirroring Haywood's journey. The shift from the fear of pursuit to the imagined luxury of a "fine cigar" and "Sylvia's cookie jar" offers a powerful glimpse into the desires that fuel such a desperate flight. It’s a narrative that captures the raw hope of escaping a dire situation for a better, even if imagined, future.