Song meaning of Ohio by Over the Rhine

The lyrics of the song "Ohio" by Over the Rhine evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection on the struggles and changes experienced in the state of Ohio. The repeated phrases "Hello Ohio" and "I know Ohio like the back of my hand" suggest a deep familiarity with the place, but also an acknowledgment of the changes that have occurred over time.

The lyrics mention the back roads, the river bends, and specific locations like Egypt Bottom and the rubber tree, painting a picture of rural Ohio and the memories associated with it. The mention of a strip pit where a good son lost his life suggests the harsh realities of the region, with industries causing both destruction and loss.

The song also delves into personal connections and relationships. References to Holly, Mary, and Valerie evoke a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences. The lyrics capture a specific moment in time, the summertime in '83, where the characters in the song find solace in each other's company and in dreaming out loud in the night air.

Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of longing and melancholy. The repeated line "And it's strange to see your story end" suggests a lament for the changes and endings, both personal and collective, that have occurred in Ohio. It speaks to the bittersweet nature of nostalgia and the inevitability of change. The song leaves the listener with a feeling of sadness and a recognition of the passage of time.