HomePatti SmithSong Meaning of "Drifter's Escape" by Patti Smith

Song Meaning of “Drifter’s Escape” by Patti Smith

Song Details

  • Album Release Date: 2012
  • Genre: punk-rock

Song Meaning of “Drifter’s Escape” by Patti Smith

This intense and powerful track, ‘Drifter’s Escape,’ by the legendary Patti Smith, is a plea to hold onto hope and courage through difficult times. The song paints a picture of a drifter struggling against the harshness of the world, yet with a sense of bravado and self-determination. The song’s empowering chorus encourages the listener to keep their chin up and believe in themselves: “You’ve just got to close your eyes and drift away and hope for the best that maybe by tomorrow, you’ll drift away, too…” The lyrics also speak of the loneliness of being a drifter, “And in the dark, when all of your friends just pass you by,” emphasizing the need to have faith that life will eventually turn around. The song is also a reminder that not everybody has it easy and to be grateful for life’s blessings. In the end, Smith’s message, through her strong lyrics and passionate vocals, is to keep up the fight and “drift away” to find a better future.

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