Yankee, Go Home
Richard Thompson · Other Songs - Richard Thompson
The sun is setting on another day
Why don't you leave me alone
Yankee go home
They're burning effigies out in the street
Man the lifeboats, sound the retreat
Pentagon's on the phone
Yankee go home
You can't just kiss and run away
There ain't enough money on a sergeant's pay
When the dance hall girl you banged's in the family way
You turned my sister into a whore
With a pair of silk stockings from the P.X. store
Why don't you leave us alone
Yankee go home
My girlfriend won't talk to me
Since she met with a sailor from the land of the free
I'm tired of being alone
Yankee go home
I've lost count of the chewing gum that I've had
And vodka-cola make my teeth go bad
We'll handle this on our own
Yankee go home
Dow Jones going into a stall
Spray paint saying it on every wall
The climb was fine, now it's time to decline and fall
Overpaid, oversexed and over here
Get smart, gringo, disappear
The Hun's at the gates of Rome
Yankee go home
About Yankee, Go Home
Richard Thompson's "Yankee, Go Home" stands as a poignant testament to his mastery of acoustic storytelling and social commentary. Recorded during a period where Thompson frequently explored themes of political unrest and rural life, the track exemplifies his signature blend of folk tradition and poetic lyricism. The song's narrative captures the tension of displacement and the call to return home, utilizing Thompson's intricate guitar work to underscore the emotional weight of the subject matter. As part of his extensive discography, this recording reflects his commitment to addressing contemporary issues through the lens of traditional American folk music. The piece resonates with listeners who appreciate the humanistic depth found in Thompson's catalog, offering a vivid portrait of a character navigating difficult circumstances without relying on explicit political slogans. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to universalize specific struggles into a timeless musical experience.