The lyrics depict a narrator who is called a dog when he's not around, but is welcomed back warmly when he returns with money. He talks about traveling through Kentucky and Tennessee, being taught to gamble by his father, and questioning who will take care of his loved ones when he's gone.

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Meaning of "Call Me A Dog When I'm Gone" by Frank Fairfield


The lyrics of "Call Me A Dog When I'm Gone" reflect themes of absence and worth, with the character of the song being labeled negatively only to be appreciated upon his return with money. The mention of traveling through various states and being familiar with gambling hints at a life of wandering and risky behaviors. The narrator's contemplation of who will care for his family when he's not around suggests a sense of responsibility and concern for his loved ones. Overall, the song explores the complexities of human relationships, the trade-offs of being perceived negatively, and the desire for acceptance and love even in the face of flaws and mistakes.