The song "The Old Man's Lament" tells the story of an old man who is lamenting the fact that he is left taking care of a child that is not his own by his unfaithful wife. He warns young men to be cautious before getting married as they may end up in a similar situation.

Meaning of "The Old Man's Lament" by Buffy Sainte-Marie

The lyrics of "The Old Man's Lament" speak to themes of betrayal, regret, and the consequences of unfaithfulness in a relationship. The old man's sorrow and resignation at being stuck in a situation where he is caring for a child that is not his own highlights the pain and heartache that can come from being deceived by a partner. The warning he issues to young men to be wary of marriage serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of relationships and the importance of choosing partners wisely. The repetitive rocking of the cradle serves as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life and the burden of responsibility that can come with unforeseen circumstances.