Tulsa Time

Eric Clapton's 'Tulsa Time' is a song that captures the essence of seeking simplicity and contentment in a world that often values ambition and success. The protagonist of the song leaves Oklahoma, driving a Pontiac, in search of a better life in Arizona or California, where he believes people live more comfortably. This journey represents a common theme in American culture: the pursuit of the American Dream. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that this dream is not as attainable as it seems.

The lyrics reveal the protagonist's struggle with societal expectations and personal aspirations. His mother thinks he's crazy, and his partner calls him lazy, but he is determined to prove them wrong. He believes that he doesn't need more schooling and that he was born to 'walk the line,' a phrase that suggests living life on his own terms. Despite his efforts, he finds himself in Hollywood, where his dreams of making it in the movies or music industry are dashed. This realization leads him to reflect on the simplicity and comfort of his life back in Tulsa.

'Tulsa Time' ultimately conveys a message about the value of appreciating what you have and finding contentment in simplicity. The protagonist decides to 'set his watch back' to Tulsa time, symbolizing a return to his roots and a rejection of the pressures and disappointments of chasing grandiose dreams. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pull between ambition and contentment, reminding us that sometimes, the peace we seek is found in the familiar and the simple.