On & on
Tom and Jerry Lyrics

The song "On & On" by Tom and Jerry (a pre-Simon and Garfunkel duo consisting of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel) describes a world that is brutal and unforgiving, with broken glass and rusty nails symbolizing the dangers that exist in everyday life. The violets that grow in this world represent beauty and hope, but they are overshadowed by the railroad and the mad dogs of summer, two forces that seem to threaten the singer's existence. As the singer bids farewell to everything he knows, he acknowledges that some men will do anything for diamonds or gold, even if they are wounded. Despite these challenges, there is a sense of perseverance and resilience in these lines - people may sleep by the side of the road, but they keep climbing and striving for a better life.

The song uses a variety of vivid and memorable images to convey its themes. There is a hole in the ladder and a fence that can be climbed, suggesting that even in a world filled with obstacles, there are ways to overcome them. The singer describes someone who is "mad as a hatter" and "thin as a dime," suggesting that this person is perhaps a bit eccentric and vulnerable, but still able to hold his own in a difficult environment. The mention of disciples shaving in the gutter suggests both the poverty of these followers and their loyalty to a leader who may not be entirely deserving of it.

Overall, "On & On" is a song about the struggle for survival in a harsh world, and the various ways in which people cope with adversity. Whether it's through sheer determination, loyalty to a charismatic leader, or a willingness to dream and imagine a better future, the song suggests that there are always ways to keep moving forward.