How The West Was Won

The White Buffalo's song 'How The West Was Won' delves into the tumultuous emotions of a man grappling with love, loss, and self-destruction. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is rolling through life like a freight train, unable to escape the scent of a lost lover. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative filled with regret and a longing for redemption. The protagonist acknowledges his shortcomings, referring to himself as a 'loser' and a 'fuck-up,' and expresses a deep desire to treat his lover right, despite his repeated failures.

The song's chorus, 'Well, I better get my gun, Is that how the west was won? Is that just what I've become?' suggests a metaphorical battle within the protagonist. The reference to 'the west' evokes the rugged, lawless frontier of American history, symbolizing a struggle for control and survival. This metaphor extends to the protagonist's internal conflict, as he contemplates whether his destructive tendencies are an inherent part of his identity or a result of his circumstances. The mention of whiskey and hard drinking nights further emphasizes his reliance on alcohol as a coping mechanism, highlighting the cyclical nature of his self-destructive behavior.

Throughout the song, the protagonist's sense of hopelessness is palpable. He walks along the avenues, unable to drink away his blues, and questions whether ending it all would bring him back to his lost love. The repeated refrain of 'Train's rolling off the tracks!' underscores the sense of inevitability and loss of control that pervades his life. Ultimately, 'How The West Was Won' is a poignant exploration of the struggle to overcome personal demons and the yearning for redemption in the face of overwhelming despair.