The phrase "the lights went out in Georgia" is actually a line from a popular song titled "The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia." The song was written by Bobby Russell and first recorded by Vicki Lawrence in 1972. It tells a story about a tragic event that took place in Georgia.
The lyrics of the song depict a narrative about a man named Andy Wolloe, who returns home to find his wife and brother together. In a fit of rage, Andy kills them both. The following day, the sheriff and a search party find Andy's wife dead, and they wrongly assume that she was the one having an affair. Andy is wrongfully accused of the murder and eventually executed, while the true story remains a secret.
The phrase "the lights went out in Georgia" is metaphorical and refers to the darkness that descended upon the town due to the tragedy. It symbolizes the secrecy, injustice, and sorrow surrounding the events of the story.
It's important to note that the song is a work of fiction and not based on a real-life event. It became popular and has been covered by various artists over the years, contributing to its lasting cultural impact.