Pray For Rain
The Killjoys Lyrics

The lyrics of "Pray For Rain" by The Killjoys paint a vivid picture of a lawless and desolate town that is plagued by corruption, moral decay, and desperation. The song speaks to the struggles and longing for redemption in such a place, with the repeated line "And I pray for rain" serving as a plea for salvation and renewal.

The opening verse sets the stage, describing the chaotic nature of the town and its inhabitants. The heathens are portrayed as rowdy troublemakers, tearing up the town and singing into the night. The sheriff, who is supposed to uphold justice, is instead depicted as a drunken liar who has lost his gun in a gambling game. This characterization of the sheriff symbolizes the lack of law and order in the town, contributing to its overall deterioration.

The following verse addresses the singer directly addressing someone they refer to as "Mr. Big Shot." This person is arrogant and demanding, thinking they are entitled to something from the singer. However, the singer asserts their independence and tells this person to leave before violence ensues, as implied by the mention of their "little friend" potentially causing harm. This verse speaks to the defiance and resilience of the singer in the face of oppression.

The chorus returns to the theme of praying for rain, metaphorically representing the need for change and rebirth. The mention of the chapel in the whorehouse and the preacher being in chains emphasizes the corruption and distortion of religious values in the town. It suggests that even the most sacred elements of society have been compromised, bringing further despair and a need for redemption.

The final verse adds a sense of time passing, with the mention of "sixteen years and counting" and the tracks that have witnessed a train. This imagery could symbolize the relentlessness of time and the ongoing struggles faced by the town. Despite the passage of time, the prayer for rain remains, reflecting the enduring hope for renewal and salvation.

Overall, "Pray For Rain" by The Killjoys paints a bleak and desperate picture of a community crumbling under corruption and moral decay. The lyrics capture the longing for change and redemption, with the repeated prayer for rain serving as a symbol of hope and renewal.