In this darkly humorous narrative, Johnny Cash explores themes of heartbreak and revenge through the story of a man scorned by his lover. The protagonist, feeling replaced by a wealthier suitor, spirals into depression and substance abuse. In a twisted turn, he buys a Cadillac—the symbol of his inadequacy—and plans a fatal drive off Lookout Mountain with his ex-lover, intending it to appear as a suicide. This act is seen as his final escape from emotional pain and societal expectations, ironically fulfilling her desire for adventure in the most tragic way possible. The song reflects on the extreme lengths to which despair can drive human actions and the destructive nature of revenge.
