# Bruce Springsteen's Vietnam Vet Song

> Bruce Springsteen's 1984 song about a Vietnam veteran takes emotionally devastating lyrical turns.
- Title: Bruce Springsteen's Vietnam Vet Song · American Songwriter
- Summary: Bruce Springsteen's 1984 song about a Vietnam veteran takes emotionally devastating lyrical turns. Bruce Springsteen's 1984 song 'Shut Out The Light'…
- Keywords: bruce springsteen, shut out the light, vietnam vet, born in the u.s.a, nebraska album, e street band, music, culture, Bruce, Springsteen's, Vietnam, Vet
- Source: American Songwriter — https://americansongwriter.com/bruce-springsteens-1984-song-about-a-vietnam-vet-takes-some-emotionally-devastating-lyrical-turns
- Author: Jim Beviglia
- Published: 2026-10-03T20:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: bruce springsteen, shut out the light, vietnam vet, born in the u.s.a, nebraska album, e street band, music, culture
## Bruce Springsteen's 1984 Song
Bruce Springsteen's 1984 song 'Shut Out The Light' focuses on a Vietnam veteran's emotional state after returning home.

> Shut Out The Light
## Song's Emotional Impact
The song's quiet lyrics reveal a veteran's mental and emotional struggles following his return from Vietnam.

> He was staring at the ceiling, he couldn't move his hands
## Family's Efforts
Family members try to welcome the veteran home with banners, his vehicle, and maternal support.

> His pa said he was sure they'd give him his job back down at the factory
## Veteran's Descent
The veteran's mental state deteriorates as he stands in cold water, staring at city lights.

> In the cold black water now Johnson Lanier stands
## Emotional Plea
The veteran pleads with his mother to not shut out the light during his emotional crisis.

> Throw your arms around me in the cold dark night
## B-Side Status
The song was released as a B-side to 'Born In The U.S.A.' and later included in rare recordings.

> Shut Out The Light
## Key takeaway

Bruce Springsteen's 1984 song 'Shut Out The Light' portrays a Vietnam veteran's emotional turmoil after returning home.