I've always interpreted this song as an expression of the love-hate relationship many people have with Americana:
There's the trashy/plastic side of American culture - "you offer infra red, instead of sun; you offer paper spoons and bubble gum".
Then there's a guilt complex - "Forgive me Faron Young" - a recognition that there are many great aspects of American culture to celebrate - Paddy was obviously a fan of Faron Young.
The 7" single sleeve for the song featured a picture of huge truck - another symbol of Americana. The song seems to be poking fun at American culture but also admitting a soft spot for it. (Just like the playful dig at Bruce Springsteen in 'Cars and Girls' - a recurring theme maybe).
The song is in effect a continuation of the metaphor used on the album its from - Steve McQueen - a great American hero but also a symbol of macho American aggression.
I've always thought there's a lot of mischievous humour in Paddy's lyrics - the picture of him sitting on the motorbike on the album sleeve is playful - the sensitive songwriter juxtaposed with the ultimate macho symbol - is there a wry smile on Paddy's face as he sits astride the bike?
I've always interpreted this song as an expression of the love-hate relationship many people have with Americana: There's the trashy/plastic side of American culture - "you offer infra red, instead of sun; you offer paper spoons and bubble gum". Then there's a guilt complex - "Forgive me Faron Young" - a recognition that there are many great aspects of American culture to celebrate - Paddy was obviously a fan of Faron Young. The 7" single sleeve for the song featured a picture of huge truck - another symbol of Americana. The song seems to be poking fun at American culture but also admitting a soft spot for it. (Just like the playful dig at Bruce Springsteen in 'Cars and Girls' - a recurring theme maybe). The song is in effect a continuation of the metaphor used on the album its from - Steve McQueen - a great American hero but also a symbol of macho American aggression. I've always thought there's a lot of mischievous humour in Paddy's lyrics - the picture of him sitting on the motorbike on the album sleeve is playful - the sensitive songwriter juxtaposed with the ultimate macho symbol - is there a wry smile on Paddy's face as he sits astride the bike?