On The Big Rock Candy Mountain Lyrics
“On The Big Rock Candy Mountain” is a popular American folk song that was first recorded in 1928. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and has become a staple of American folk music. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a hobo’s paradise, where the mountains are made of candy and the rivers are made of alcohol. The song has a catchy tune and memorable lyrics that have made it a favorite among folk music lovers. This article will delve into the lyrics of “On The Big Rock Candy Mountain” and explore their meaning.
The First Verse
The first verse of “On The Big Rock Candy Mountain” sets the scene for the rest of the song. The hobo is describing a place where the “sun shines every day” and there is “no snow or rain”. This is a stark contrast to the harsh realities of the hobo’s life, where he is constantly exposed to the elements and has to deal with the hardships of being homeless. The reference to the “cigarette trees” and the “lemonade springs” gives the impression that everything in this magical land is easy to come by, and the hobo can live a life of leisure without any worries.
The Second Verse
The second verse of the song describes the mountains on “On The Big Rock Candy Mountain”. The lyrics state that the mountains are made of “soda pop” and that the trees are made of “tootsie rolls”. This imagery paints a vivid picture of a land that is almost too good to be true. The reference to the “bluebird” that sings “a happy song” is another indication that this land is a place of joy and happiness.
The Third Verse
The third verse of the song describes the rivers on “On The Big Rock Candy Mountain”. The lyrics state that the rivers are made of “whiskey” and that you can “float” down them. This is another indication that this land is a place of excess and indulgence. The reference to the “brakemen” not being able to “pull you off” is a reminder that this land is not reality and that the hobo will eventually have to return to the harsh realities of his life.
The Fourth Verse
The fourth verse of the song is where the reality of the hobo’s life starts to creep back in. The lyrics state that there are “no short-handled shovels” and that the “work is all done by one”. This is a reminder that the hobo’s life is not one of leisure and that he has to work hard to survive. The reference to the “dogs” not being able to “bite you” is another indication that this land is a fantasy and that the hobo is trying to escape his harsh reality.
The Fifth Verse
The fifth and final verse of the song is a reminder that the hobo’s paradise is not real. The lyrics state that the “bulldogs” will “roam” and that the “cops will beat you” if you try to stay in this land of fantasy. This verse is a reminder that the hobo cannot escape his harsh reality and that he must face the consequences of his actions.
Conclusion
“On The Big Rock Candy Mountain” is a classic American folk song that has captured the hearts of many. The lyrics of the song create a vivid picture of a land that is almost too good to be true. The hobo is trying to escape his harsh reality and find a place of leisure and indulgence. However, the final verse of the song is a reminder that this land is not real and that the hobo must face the harsh realities of his life. The catchy tune and memorable lyrics of “On The Big Rock Candy Mountain” have made it a favorite among folk music lovers for generations.