Meaning of "Whiskey For Sale" by Buddy Guy

The lyrics of "Whiskey For Sale" by Buddy Guy can be interpreted as a reflection on the narrator's past experiences and current attitude towards whiskey. The mention of hitting the packet every Saturday night and grabbing bottles to treat oneself suggests a time of indulgence and enjoyment. However, the narrator acknowledges that liquor stores are closed on Sundays, leading them to put up a sign on their door advertising whiskey for sale.

The repetition of "Whiskey (Good whiskey) Ooh yeah" and "Whiskey for sale" throughout the song expresses the narrator's enthusiasm for the beverage and their willingness to provide it to others. The mention of the price, such as a quarter for a sip, a dollar for a shot, and a penny for a sniff, implies the narrator's awareness of the value people place on whiskey and their willingness to pay various amounts for even the briefest experience.

The line "Men go crazy just for a taste, line down the block outside of my place" further emphasizes the demand and allure of the narrator's whiskey. It highlights the power and influence they hold as a provider of this beloved drink. The narrator's current state, where they are giving away whiskey for free to anyone who has a thirst, contrasts with their past experience of selling it. This can be seen as a shift in attitude, where they have reached a point of abundance and are now generous in sharing their supply.

The line "Take what you need, got a room full of booze, open a bottle every night of 99 proof" signifies the narrator's current state of abundance and availability. They have a surplus of whiskey and are willing to share it freely without restrictions. This generosity and openness suggest a sense of fulfillment and contentment in the narrator's life.

The overall tone of the lyrics conveys a sense of enjoyment and satisfaction. The repeated exclamation of feeling good and making others feel good suggests a positive outlook and a desire to spread happiness through the availability of whiskey. It may also be interpreted as a metaphor for the narrator's overall approach to life, where they derive pleasure from providing others with what they desire.