Meaning of "Lay My Lily Down" by Bob Weir

The lyrics of "Lay My Lily Down" by Bob Weir convey themes of love, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The act of digging a hole in the meadow to lay Lily down symbolizes the inevitability of mortality and the cyclical nature of life. Weir's memories range from Lily's birth, reflecting on the profound connection they shared, to her rebellious spirit as she stares out at the sea with pistols and a banjo. The imagery of the sun shining through the window, the cold ground, and the windswept sea evoke a sense of the bittersweetness of life and the beauty found in fleeting moments. Weir's desire to wake up his sleeping child and teach her to laugh at hell speaks to his wish for Lily to find joy and resilience in the face of adversity, all while acknowledging the fiery spirit she inherited from him. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant portrait of a father's love for his daughter, capturing the complex emotions and memories that shape their relationship.