The lyrics of "They're Red Hot" describe a woman selling hot tamales and emphasize their spiciness and popularity. The song also mentions various scenarios and characters interacting with the hot tamales being sold.

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Meaning of "They're Red Hot" by Robert Johnson


The lyrics of "They're Red Hot" by Robert Johnson can be interpreted as a metaphor for the allure and excitement of forbidden pleasures. The repeated references to the hot tamales being "red hot" suggest a sense of danger or risk associated with indulging in them. The imagery of the woman selling the tamales, the interactions between various characters in the song, and the warnings about the tamales being too hot all contribute to a narrative that hints at the consequences of giving in to temptation. The mention of the monkey and baboon playing in the grass, with the monkey sticking his finger in "Good Gulf Gas," could symbolize the unpredictability and potential harm that come with engaging in reckless behavior. Overall, the song could be seen as a cautionary tale about the seductive nature of things that may seem enticing but ultimately lead to trouble.