C'mon Sixty Five

Merle Haggard's song "C'mon Sixty Five" is a poignant reflection on the struggles and dreams of a working man who yearns for the freedom that retirement promises. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who feels trapped in his city job, longing for the day he can escape to the peacefulness of the Kern River, where he can reconnect with simpler pleasures like fishing with an old cane pole. This imagery symbolizes a return to a more carefree and fulfilling life, contrasting sharply with the drudgery of his current existence.

The refrain, "Sixty five c'mon sixty five," underscores the protagonist's anticipation for reaching the age of retirement. He views this milestone as a gateway to reclaiming his life, which he feels has been wasted away by the demands of his job. The gold watch mentioned in the lyrics is a traditional symbol of retirement, but for the protagonist, it represents the end of a long, arduous journey rather than a reward. His desire to pawn the watch signifies his rejection of the materialistic values that have dominated his working life.

Haggard also touches on the theme of lost youth and dreams. The protagonist reminisces about being a seventeen-year-old full of dreams, only to have those dreams stripped away by the harsh realities of life. This sense of loss is compounded by the physical toll that years of hard labor have taken on his body. Despite this, he remains hopeful, saving up enough to "mend his ragged wings" and fly once more. The song captures the bittersweet reality of many working-class individuals who sacrifice their best years for the promise of a better future, only to find that the journey has left them weary and worn.