Hey, hey
Hey, hey
In my rear-view mirror
My life is getting clearer
The sunset sighs and slowly disappears
These trinkets once were treasure
Life changes like the weather
You grow up, grow old
Or you hit the road
‘Round here
So I drive
Watching white lines passing by
With my plastic dashboard Jesus
Waiting there to greet us
Hey, hey
I finally found my way
Say goodbye to yesterday
Hit the gas
There ain’t no brakes
On this lost highway
Yeah I’m busting loose, I’m letting go
Out on this open road
It’s Independence Day
On this lost highway
Hey, hey
Hey, hey
I don’t know where I’m going
But I know where I’ve been
I’m afraid of going back again
So I drive
Years and miles are flying by
And waiting there to greet us
Is my plastic dashboard Jesus
Hey, hey
I finally found my way
Say goodbye to yesterday
Hit the gas
There ain’t no brakes
On this lost highway
Yeah I’m busting loose, I’m letting go
Out on this open road
It’s Independence Day
On this lost highway
Hey, hey
Hey, hey
Oh patron saint of lonely souls
Tell this boy which way to go
Guide the car, you got the keys
Farewell to mediocrity
Kicking off the cruise-control
And turning up the radio
Got just enough religion
And a half tank of gas
Come on, let’s go
I finally found my way
Say goodbye to yesterday
Hit the gas
There ain’t no brakes
On this lost highway
Yeah I’m busting loose, I’m letting go
Out on this open road
It’s Independence Day
On this lost highway
Finding Freedom on the Road: An Interpretation of “Lost Highway”
“Lost Highway” by Bon Jovi is a stirring anthem about leaving the past behind and embracing the unknown. Through vivid road imagery, the song captures the essence of self-discovery and reinvention. The protagonist looks back at life’s memories in the rear-view mirror, recognizing that change is inevitable. The lyrics emphasize breaking free from routine—symbolized by phrases like “busting loose” and “kicking off the cruise-control”—and seeking a sense of independence.
Symbols and Themes
The recurring mention of the “plastic dashboard Jesus” serves as a symbol of faith and guidance on life’s unpredictable journey. As the narrator bids farewell to mediocrity and the constraints of yesterday, the open highway becomes a metaphor for new beginnings, freedom, and the courage to move forward despite uncertainty.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, John Shanks
Release Year: 2007
Label: Island Records