Prison Bound

Social Distortion's song 'Prison Bound' delves into the grim reality of incarceration and the emotional toll it takes on an individual. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is resigned to his fate, heading to prison after committing one too many crimes. The opening lines set the tone, describing prison as a place where men become even tougher and are discouraged from showing any vulnerability. This reflects the harsh environment of prison life, where emotional expression is often seen as a weakness.

The song's protagonist acknowledges that he is being punished and that the system aims to reform him. However, there is a sense of skepticism and resignation in his voice, as he doubts whether this time will be any different. The chorus reinforces this feeling of inevitability, as he accepts his fate of being 'prison bound' and contemplates the possibility of never knowing any other way of life. The mention of the prison's location 'on the outskirts of town, by the railroad tracks' adds a sense of isolation and desolation to his predicament.

The lyrics also touch on the loss of freedom and the dehumanizing aspects of prison life. The protagonist mentions the restrictions on his freedom of expression and action, and the monotonous routine of 'three hots and a cot.' The cold and clammy environment of the prison is described as being 'colder than a pimp's heart,' emphasizing the harsh and unfeeling nature of the place. Despite acknowledging that there is a lesson to be learned, the protagonist questions whether he will ever truly learn from his experiences, highlighting the cyclical nature of crime and punishment.