Weeping Willow Blues
Heartache Beneath the Willow: Bessie Smith's Tale of Love Lost
Lyrics
I went down to the river, sat beneath the willow tree
I visited the river and sat beneath a willow tree.
The dew dropped on those willow leaves and it rolled right down on me
The dew from the willow leaves fell on me.
And that's the reason I've got those weeping willow blues
This experience is the cause of my sorrowful feelings, known as the weeping willow blues.
I went up on the mountain, high as any girl could stand
I climbed a mountain and observed the town where I lost my loved one.
And looked down on the mean town that took away my lovin' man
The town that took away my man, contributing to my sadness.
And that's the reason I've got those weepin' willow blues
This loss is the reason for my weeping willow blues.
I heard the whistle blowing, the fireman ring the bell
I heard a whistle and the fireman ringing a bell.
They're taking away that willow tree that give me this weeping spell
They are removing the willow tree that caused my sorrow.
And that's the reason I've got those weeping willow blues
The removal intensifies my weeping willow blues.
When you're broken hearted and your man is out of town
When heartbroken and alone, go to the river, sit down, and reflect.
Go to the river, take the chains and sit down
If he doesn't return, the suggestion is to jump overboard, indicating despair.
And if he don't come back to you, I'll tell you what to do
Advice on what to do if the loved one doesn't come back.
Just jump right overboard, 'cause he ain't no more to you
Suggesting extreme actions because the person is no longer significant.
Folks I love my man, I kiss him morning noon and night
Expressing love and care for the man in various ways.
I wash his clothes and keep him clean and try to treat him right
Despite efforts, the man has left, causing deep disappointment.
Now he's gone and left me after all I tried to do
Reflecting on the unsuccessful attempts to keep the relationship intact.
The way he treats me, girls, he'll do the same to you
Warning other women about the man's behavior, indicating potential mistreatment.
That's the reason I've got those weepin' willow blues
The overall reason for the sorrowful state, the weeping willow blues.
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