Meaning of "Brown's Ferry Blues" by Doc Watson

"Brown's Ferry Blues" by Doc Watson delves into the theme of hard luck and unfortunate circumstances faced by different individuals. The lyrics paint a picture of struggles and challenges that people often encounter in their lives. From the hard luck poppa counting his toes to the two old maids longing for something they don't have, the song highlights the disappointments and setbacks that can plague individuals. The repetition of the phrase "Lord, lord, got those Brown's Ferry Blues" emphasizes the feeling of despair and hopelessness that accompany these difficult situations. Despite the advice to be early to bed and early to rise, the song suggests that sometimes hard work and good intentions are not enough to avoid misfortune. Overall, the lyrics capture the essence of life's unpredictability and the inevitability of facing hardships.