This song was a bit strong for the record company, as Pleased To Meet Me, The Replacements’ 1987 album, already had ‘The Ledge’ on. And two songs about suicide was judged a bit much…
To be honest, I don’t really get that. I find this song uplifting, and kind of thought it was just about going home.
The guitar riff and horns wouldn’t be out of place sound tracking a Disney movie, and it leaves you feeling wholesome.
As for the lyrics, it’s all a matter of interpretation. He talks about ‘being home when he’s sleeping’, but I don’t read that as wanting to be dead. Just that he’s tired after touring!