In response to The Great Wok: Initially I didn't see a clear connection between the song and his mother (I had another interpretation that I will get to); however, after reading about the relationship John had with his mother, the correlation is there. It makes sense this song is from an outsiders perspective by the fact that he sees Dylkins for who he truly is; an abusive man who finds joy in bringing others suffering. And his mother must not “see” it because John says “ tho’ he may want you too.. that boy isn’t good for you” implies that he might seem apologetic after, which is the reason why is mother goes back, but “that boy won’t be happy till he’s seen you cry”(he is perpetually abusive).
In response to The Great Wok: Initially I didn't see a clear connection between the song and his mother (I had another interpretation that I will get to); however, after reading about the relationship John had with his mother, the correlation is there. It makes sense this song is from an outsiders perspective by the fact that he sees Dylkins for who he truly is; an abusive man who finds joy in bringing others suffering. And his mother must not “see” it because John says “ tho’ he may want you too.. that boy isn’t good for you” implies that he might seem apologetic after, which is the reason why is mother goes back, but “that boy won’t be happy till he’s seen you cry”(he is perpetually abusive).