About the Song
“Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore”, a strikingly poignant and thought-provoking song by John Prine, stands as one of the finest examples of his masterful storytelling and sharp social commentary. Released in 1971 as part of his self-titled debut album, this song encapsulates the spirit of Prine’s unique blend of humor, irony, and profound insight into the human condition. With its directness and subtle critique, it is no surprise that this track has remained a classic among folk music enthusiasts.
The song revolves around a seemingly simple, yet deeply reflective, exploration of patriotism and its disconnect with true moral values. Through the perspective of an ordinary man reflecting on his place in the world, Prine critiques the superficiality of a flag decal — often placed on cars or windows as a symbol of patriotism — and questions its real worth in matters of faith and morality. The lyric “Your flag decal won’t get you into heaven anymore” is an unequivocal statement, challenging the listener to reconsider the ease with which some try to equate nationalism with spiritual righteousness.
The charm of this track lies in its candidness. Prine’s folksy voice delivers the message with the kind of honesty that only someone with a true understanding of both the American landscape and human nature could express. He effectively pairs sharp social commentary with the style of a classic folk song, reminding us that a display of loyalty to one’s country should not be confused with deeper, more meaningful expressions of love, humanity, and faith.
For many, “Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore” offers a bitter but necessary reminder that the simplest symbols of national pride can mask the more complex issues of personal integrity and moral responsibility. Through this track, Prine challenges us to reconsider what truly matters — not just in terms of patriotism but in the way we live our lives and treat others. In a time when issues of nationalism and identity are more prominent than ever, the song resonates just as powerfully today as it did when it was first penned.
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Lyrics: Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore
While digesting Reader’s Digest
In the back of a dirty book store,
A plastic flag, with gum on the back,
Fell out on the floor.
Well, I picked it up and I ran outside
Slapped it on my window shield,
And if I could see old Betsy Ross
I’d tell her how good I feel.[Chorus:]
But your flag decal won’t get you
Into Heaven any more.
They’re already overcrowded
From your dirty little war.
Now Jesus don’t like killin’
No matter what the reason’s for,
And your flag decal won’t get you
Into Heaven any more.Well, I went to the bank this morning
And the cashier he said to me,
“If you join the Christmas club
We’ll give you ten of them flags for free.”
Well, I didn’t mess around a bit
I took him up on what he said.
And I stuck them stickers all over my car
And one on my wife’s forehead.[Chorus]
Well, I got my window shield so filled
With flags I couldn’t see.
So, I ran the car upside a curb
And right into a tree.
By the time they got a doctor down
I was already dead.
And I’ll never understand why the man
Standing in the Pearly Gates said…“But your flag decal won’t get you
Into Heaven any more.
We’re already overcrowded
From your dirty little war.
Now Jesus don’t like killin’
No matter what the reason’s for,
And your flag decal won’t get you
Into Heaven any more.”