Last Kind Words Blues
Echoes of Longing: Last Words and Deep Blues
Lyrics
The last kind words I heard my daddy say
The last kind words my father spoke before his passing.
Lord, the last kind words I heard my daddy say
A repetition emphasizing the importance of the final words.
If I die, if I die in the German war
If I die in the German war, a request regarding his potential death in a war.
I want you to send my body, send it to my mother, Lord
In the event of his death, a plea to send his body to his mother.
If I get killed, if I get killed, please don't bury my soul
If he is killed, a request not to bury his soul, but to let buzzards consume his body.
I prefer you leave me out, let the buzzards eat me whole
An explicit preference for leaving his body to nature rather than a formal burial.
When you see me comin', look 'cross the rich man's field
When he approaches, observe the rich man's field, suggesting economic disparities.
If I don't bring you flour, I'll bring you bolted meal
If he can't bring flour, he'll bring bolted meal, signifying humble offerings.
I went to the depot, I looked up at the sun
Expressing impatience at the train's delay, anticipating the need to walk.
Cried some train don't come, there'll be some walkin' done
A sense of urgency, hoping for the arrival of a train to avoid walking.
My mama told me, just before she died
Words from his dying mother advising him not to be reckless.
Lord, precious daughter, don't you be so wild
A reminder to the daughter to be cautious and precious in her actions.
The Mississippi river, you know it's deep and wide
Reference to the Mississippi River, metaphorically portraying life's challenges.
I can stand right here, see my babe from the other side
Despite challenges, he can see his beloved from afar, suggesting hope.
What you do to me baby, it never gets outta me
Reflecting on the lasting impact of a relationship, emphasizing emotional depth.
I may not see you after I cross the deep blue sea
Anticipating separation after crossing the metaphorical deep blue sea, conveying uncertainty.
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