Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “85 E. Cleveland (Plow United)” by Iron Chic
The song ‘85 E. Cleveland (Plow United)’ by Iron Chic tells the story of two people—Cleo and West—who grew up together in the back of 85 East Cleveland and reminisce about what it was like growing up in a small town, neither of them having ever left. The track reflects on the bittersweet memories of youth, when life seemed more manageable and exciting.
The song opens with an almost hesitant sound, depicting the two at the time of reflection. The very first lyrics “Well nobody told me nothing about going out of town/But if I had left, I would have wound up coming back around” give insight to the dilemma of two people looking for an escape, but knowing that their small town is where they ultimately belong. The lyrics continue on with Cleo affirming that she “ain’t never been awarded nothing I didn’t earn,” suggesting that though they both may have been frustrated with the limitations of their town, it has made them both resilient and successful.
The chorus follows suit, describing the town as “a place to hide but it’s no getaway,” of the feelings of being “cornered in some static state.” Attention is also paid to a “beat-up truck” which symbolizes the two’s journey of growing up with the lyrical nod to not “minding the dents.” Another verse speaks of West getting into “trouble from the start of that summer’s day,” which further emphasizes the incidents and events of their teenage years that molded them into the people they are today.
The song ends on an almost-hopeful note with West being offered a way out. We can only hope that the two have since left their small town and made something of themselves.
Overall, ‘85 E. Cleveland (Plow United)’ is a track that looks back fondly at a small town’s notable moments and identities with the feeling of home—of something bigger than living a life bigger than the one that we’re meant to live.