The Road To Hell (Part One)

Chris Rea's song "The Road to Hell (Part One)" is a haunting narrative that delves into themes of moral decay, personal reflection, and the consequences of one's choices. The song begins with the protagonist standing still on a highway, encountering a spectral figure of a woman who resembles his mother. This encounter is laden with symbolism, as the highway represents the journey of life, and the woman serves as a ghostly reminder of the protagonist's past and the moral compass he has strayed from.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has ventured into the "valley of the rich" to sell himself, a metaphor for sacrificing one's values and integrity for material gain. The mother's apparition warns him that he is on the "road to hell," a powerful metaphor for the destructive path he has chosen. This interaction highlights the internal conflict and fear that the protagonist feels, as he is paralyzed by the realization of his moral downfall.

Rea's use of the desert and the well in the lyrics further emphasizes the spiritual desolation and the quest for redemption. The journey across the wilderness symbolizes the trials and tribulations one faces in life, and the motorway to hell represents the ease with which one can lose their way. The song serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to reflect on their own choices and the potential consequences of straying from their moral path. Chris Rea's bluesy, melancholic musical style enhances the somber and reflective mood of the song, making it a poignant and thought-provoking piece.