The lyrics of "Boa Constrictor" by Peter, Paul & Mary humorously describe the narrator being swallowed by a boa constrictor in a playful and lighthearted manner, expressing discomfort and surprise as the snake makes its way up their body, leading to the final line where the snake burps.

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Meaning of "Boa Constrictor" by Peter, Paul & Mary


The lyrics of "Boa Constrictor" can be interpreted as a lighthearted, comedic take on the feeling of being overwhelmed or consumed by something larger and beyond one's control. The boa constrictor could symbolize various things such as anxieties, fears, or challenges that keep growing and swallowing the narrator whole. The progression of the snake moving up the body could represent a feeling of being suffocated or overwhelmed by these inner struggles. The humorous tone of the song and the snake's final burp could suggest a way of coping with these overwhelming emotions by finding humor in absurd situations. Ultimately, the song may be a reminder to not take life too seriously and to find laughter in moments of difficulty.