Sequestered in Memphis Lyrics

Lyric discussion by elementar 

Cover art for Sequestered in Memphis lyrics by Hold Steady, The

People don't seem to agree why he had to go back to Memphis. Either ...

  • he got accused of assaulting her
  • she turned out to be a criminal
  • she got pregnant

Probably one of the first two, because those explain why he gets interviewed.

Also I don't understand this line:

"I know I look tired, but everything's fried here in Memphis."

Why would fried foods make someone look tired?

I think it was a mentality reference. The town is 'fried'. Actually, I found the energy in Memphis to be enigmatic. Loved the place. But the girl sounds like she's got some problems.

Fried foods make you tired. You go eat KFC for breakfast and see how energetic you are.