Crossroads
Robert Johnson Lyrics

The lyrics of Robert Johnson's song The Crossroads can be interpreted as a plea for salvation from a life of trouble and hardship. The singer finds himself at a crossroads, both literally and figuratively, as he falls to his knees and begs for mercy from God. He is trying to flag down a ride, possibly hoping to escape his problems, but nobody seems to know him or offer help. The "risin' sun goin' down" serves as a powerful metaphor for his own sinking spirits and the feeling that he is running out of time.

The singer then seems to give a message to his friend Willie Brown, telling him that he is facing the "crossroad blues" and sinking down. The repetition of the phrase "you can run, you can run" suggests that the singer may be trying to warn his friend to flee his own troubles and avoid ending up in the same painful predicament. Finally, the singer laments his lack of a companion, revealing a deeper loneliness and sense of abandonment.

Overall, the song can be seen as a reflection of the struggles and hardships of African American life in the early 20th century, including poverty, discrimination, and a lack of opportunity. The crossroads serve as a symbolic intersection of hope and despair, and the singer's plea for salvation highlights the power of religion and faith in times of need.