Which Way Does That Old Pony Run
Chasing Shadows of the Past: Decoding Lyle Lovett's Old Pony
Lyrics
When I was a very young man
Reflecting on youth and inexperience.
I was a cowboy
Describing a past identity as a skilled cowboy.
The best in the land
Claiming to be the best in the land.
But then she settled me down
Reference to a woman settling the speaker down.
With a touch of her hand
Describing the calming influence of a woman's touch.
Now I'm begging you mister
Seeking advice or guidance from someone.
Tell me if you can
Expressing uncertainty or confusion.
Which way does that old pony run
Questioning the direction of life or choices.
Which way does that old pony run
Repeating the inquiry about life's path.
And how much is that saddle
Asking about the cost of a saddle and a gun.
And a straight shooting gun
Linking material possessions to life's journey.
Which way does that old pony run
Reiterating the question about life's direction.
Now a young girl
Highlighting the difference between a young girl and a woman.
She don't know when she's lying
Indicating a lack of awareness in youth.
But a woman
Contrasting the knowledge of a mature woman.
Great God she knows how its done
Acknowledging a woman's understanding.
So mama before I go
Addressing the speaker's mother with a concern.
There's just one thing on my mind
Expressing a singular concern before departure.
Which way does that old pony run
Repeating the query about life's course.
Which way does that old pony run
Continuing the theme of life's uncertain path.
Which way does that old pony run
Reiterating the question about life's direction.
And how much is that saddle
Connecting material possessions to the journey.
And a straight shooting gun
Repeating the inquiry about the cost of possessions.
Which way does that old pony run
So this good life you know I must leave
Expressing a need to leave behind a comfortable life.
Your new car
Listing material possessions left behind.
And your color TV
Highlighting modern luxuries like a car and TV.
But what's riches to you
Questioning the value of riches in life.
Just ain't riches to me
Expressing a personal perspective on wealth.
And if you're staying out here
Declaring an intention to return to the East.
Then I'm headed back east
Stating a condition for staying out West.
Which way does that old pony run
Repeating the question about life's course.
Which way does that old pony run
Reiterating the inquiry about life's direction.
And how much is that saddle
Asking about the cost of a saddle and a gun.
And a straight shooting gun
Linking material possessions to life's journey.
Which way does that old pony run
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