"Arizona" by Mark Lindsay is a song that speaks to the idea of breaking free from societal constraints and embracing a more open-minded and authentic way of living. The song addresses a woman who is perceived to have lost her way and is seeking something different from what her surroundings offer.
The opening lines suggest that the woman may have grown up in San Francisco, a place known for its liberal ideals and countercultural movements. However, she seems to have lost touch with those values and is now displaying a poster of Pancho and Cisco, characters associated with the American Wild West. This indicates a disconnect from her origins and a longing for a different, perhaps more romanticized, way of life.
The mention of beliefs in Robin Hood and brotherhood, as well as "colors of green and grey," suggests that the woman desires equality, unity, and a society that embraces diversity. These beliefs stand in contrast to the more cynical perspective of the narrator and others who find her beliefs laughable or unrealistic. The line "Doesn't anybody know how to pray?" may be interpreted as a longing for deeper spirituality or a sense of purpose in the world.
The repeated refrain of "Arizona, take off your rainbow shades" can be seen as a plea for the woman to remove the metaphorical barriers that shield her from seeing the world with clarity and objectivity. The rainbow shades are symbolic of narrow-mindedness, ignorance, or a distorted worldview. By urging her to take them off, the narrator is encouraging her to open her eyes and see things as they truly are.
The song suggests that the woman is not living an authentic life, as she is described as wearing "Indian braids" and "hobo shoes." These elements, while possibly romantic or bohemian in appearance, may be seen as superficial or disconnected from her true self. The narrator implores her to strip off her pride and scrape off the paint from the face of a "little town saint," implying that she should embrace her true identity rather than conforming to societal expectations or adopting a false persona.
The invitation to go to San Francisco with the narrator represents a journey towards self-discovery and embracing a more authentic way of living. The reference to the Count of Monte Cristo and Countess May symbolizes a transformative experience, where they can leave behind the limitations of their past and redefine themselves.
Overall, "Arizona" explores themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and the longing for a more open-minded and inclusive society. It urges the listener to question societal norms, break free from constraints, and embrace a more genuine way of living.