Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: punk-rock
Song Meaning of “Poor Paddy On The Railway – Live At The Olympia, Paris / 2012” by The Pogues
The Pogues’ song ‘Poor Paddy On The Railway – Live At The Olympia, Paris / 2012’ chronicles the story of an Irish immigrant working on a railway in the United States. Through the mournful lyrics of this live rendition, the song conveys the struggles and hardships endured by the immigrant Irish during the Industrial Revolution.
The song begins by painting a picture of “Poor Paddy” and his travels across the ocean in search of a better life in America. As he journeys away from his home and family, the passengers and crew are tasked with carrying him ever further away from his familiar surroundings. In the song, the narrator emphasizes Paddy’s loneliness and vulnerability as he enters the unfamiliar world of the United States.
The chorus reflects on Paddy’s hard work and sacrifices, describing his exhaustion and frustration as he’s forced to work day and night to buy a ticket back home. The lyrics allude to the difficulties faced by many of these immigrants, who found themselves having to work long hours on arduous jobs in order to survive. Yet despite his struggles, Paddy still finds moments of joy and hope, singing songs and telling stories on the journey that help him stay positive throughout his travels.
The song ends by emphasizing how, despite the odds, Paddy made it through his difficult journey.