Scarecrow
Melissa Etheridge · Breakdown [1999]
Seep into a nation calling up a flood
Of narrow minds who legislate
Thinly veiled intolerance
Bigotry and hate
But they tortured and burned you
They beat you and they tied you
They left you cold and breathing
For love they crucified you
I can't forget hard as I try
This silhouette against the sky
Scarecrow crying
Waiting to die wondering why
Scarecrow trying
Angels will hold carry your soul away
This was our brother
This was our son
This shepherd young and mild
This unassuming one
We all gasp this can't happen here
We're all much too civilized
Where can these monsters hide
But they are knocking on our front door
They're rocking in our cradles
They're preaching in our churches
And eating at our tables
I search my soul
My heart and in my mind
To try and find forgiveness
This is someone child
With pain unreconciled
Filled up with father's hate
Mother's neglect
I can forgive But I will not forget
Scarecrow crying
Waiting to die wondering why
Scarecrow trying
Rising above all in the name of love
Scarecrow
Melissa Etheridge's "Scarecrow" stands as a defining track from her 1999 album, Breakdown. The song captures the raw emotional intensity characteristic of Etheridge's rock-infused pop style, exploring themes of vulnerability and resilience. During this era, Etheridge continued to refine her signature sound, blending powerful vocals with driving guitar work to create anthems of personal struggle. "Scarecrow" reflects the introspective mood of the Breakdown sessions, showcasing her ability to convey complex feelings through direct, unadorned songwriting. As part of a broader discography that includes hits like "Ain't Nuthin' But a She Thing," this recording demonstrates her consistent evolution as a songwriter. The track remains a testament to her enduring presence in the rock genre, offering listeners a poignant glimpse into her artistic perspective during the turn of the millennium.