The lyrics of "Worried Man Blues" narrate the troubles and worries of a man who has found himself in a difficult situation. He sings about being shackled, facing a long sentence, and losing his loved one as she leaves on a train. Despite the challenges he is currently experiencing, he remains hopeful that his worries won't last long.

Meaning of "Worried Man Blues" by Ralph Stanley

"Worried Man Blues" reflects a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The repetitive nature of the lyrics emphasizing the worries of the protagonist signifies the weight of his troubles. The river symbolizes a boundary or crossing into a new phase of life, where the shackles on his feet represent the burdens he carries. The reference to the train and the girl he loves leaving on it can be seen as a metaphor for losing something dear to him. Through it all, the man remains convinced that his worries are temporary and that he will overcome his trials. The song conveys a message of endurance and faith that hope is on the horizon, despite the hardships one may face.