Song to Rufus
The Bob Seger System Lyrics

In "Song to Rufus," Bob Seger portrays a character who's journeying to Atlanta to sell drugs. The first part of the lyrics describe his journey on a Delta plane, explaining that he's carrying a trench coat but doesn't expect it to rain. However, the tone of the song changes in the second verse, where he discusses the real purpose of his journey. He reveals that he's carrying drugs in his pockets and sleeves and stands to make a lot of money in Atlanta. However, he also recognizes the risk, as he has to be careful to avoid getting caught by the police or being robbed by a thief.

The third verse describes Bob Seger's character as a "junk runner," explaining that he's hotter than the noonday sun. This line is significant in two ways. First, it further emphasizes the danger of his profession, as being a "junk runner" is a physically and emotionally taxing job. Second, it creates an ironic contrast between his occupation and the hot sun, implying that he's continuously on the move and never resting. The last line of the song is perhaps the most poignant, as he expresses that his "running days are done" if he doesn't make it to Orlando. Here, Seger could be suggesting that the character is aware of the cyclical nature of his profession and the limited amount of time he has to make money before he's caught.

Overall, "Song to Rufus" is a narrative of a drug dealer's life, his profession, and the compelling need to make money quickly, along with the attendant dangers surrounding it. Through his lyrics and melody, Seger skillfully creates a story full of tension, excitement, and danger.