Springsteen was a genius, knew exactly what he was making. I remember the first time I listened to the lyrics and my heart broke a little. The lyrics are all too familiar and sting, with the sharp positive turn to the chorus. It's a perfect metaphor for society.
Whenever I hear it I get angry with America, and I get angry with conservative boomers who use the verses as drinking breaks so they can belt out the chorus proudly thinking they are real patriots.