Meaning of "If You Were a Carpenter" by Joan Baez

The lyrics of "If You Were a Carpenter" delve into the concept of love and commitment beyond societal norms and external circumstances. The song portrays a conversation between two individuals, potentially in a romantic relationship, where one person poses hypothetical scenarios to the other to test their love and dedication. The questions asked in the lyrics reflect a desire to know if the other person's love is unconditional and would remain intact even if their occupations or social positions changed.

The first verse introduces the idea of a carpenter and a lady, emphasizing the difference in their social status. The questions asked, "Would you marry me anyway? Would you have my baby?" reflect the insecurities and need for reassurance from the lady, who wants to know if the carpenter's love transcends societal expectations.

In the second verse, the notion of a tinker is introduced. The lady questions if the carpenter would still find her valuable and worthy of love, even if he was occupied with his trade. The image of the lady carrying the pots the carpenter made symbolizes her willingness to support him and be there for him despite the potential disparities in their roles.

The third verse expands the scenarios further, with the lady asking if the carpenter's love would endure if he worked with wood and if he would prioritize her over his work. The carpenter responds with an affirmative "Yes I would, I'd put you above me," confirming his unwavering love for the lady.

Lastly, the lady questions if the carpenter, in the role of a miller, would still recognize her emotions and needs, even if they were not explicitly communicated. She expresses her desire to be seen and understood, and hints at the need for emotional connection and empathy in their relationship.

Overall, the lyrics of "If You Were a Carpenter" highlight the importance of love, commitment, and empathy in relationships, irrespective of social roles and external circumstances. It explores the vulnerabilities and insecurities that arise when questioning the depth of someone's love and the reassurance needed to maintain a strong connection.