Meaning of "Snakes Crawl At Night" by Charley Pride

"Snakes Crawl At Night" conveys a tale of betrayal, vengeance, and the dire consequences of acting on impulses fueled by jealousy and anger. The image of snakes crawling at night symbolizes deceit and treachery lurking in the darkness when one's guard is down. The protagonist's discovery of their spouse's infidelity triggers a chain of events that culminate in a fatal confrontation driven by a sense of betrayal and abandonment. The use of shadowy figures, trembling hands, and the devil on the shoulder emphasizes the internal struggle between reason and irrationality, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome. The protagonist's last plea for a final statement before facing the consequences of their actions reflects a fleeting moment of regret and recognition of the irreversible consequences of giving in to vengeful impulses. Overall, the lyrics serve as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of jealousy and the devastating aftermath of acting on violent impulses.