The lyrics of "Walking Blues" by Rory Block describe the feelings of loneliness, loss, and mistreatment. The narrator wakes up in the morning searching for their shoes, symbolizing their readiness to walk away from their troubles. They feel like blowing their horn to express their lonesome feelings, but realize that their loved one, Bernice, has left them. The narrator contemplates leaving and riding the train as a means of escape, as they have been mistreated. They reflect on the perception that some people think the blues aren't a big deal, but for them, it's the worst feeling they've ever had. The final lines describe a woman with an Elgin movement, suggesting she is charming and adaptable, breaking onto the scene effortlessly.

Meaning of "Walking Blues" by Rory Block

"Walking Blues" by Rory Block delves into the emotions of the narrator who is experiencing a sense of loneliness, loss, and mistreatment. The repetition of waking up in the morning searching for shoes reflects the narrator's readiness to take on a journey, both literal and metaphorical. The shoes symbolize the ability to physically move away from their troubles, while also representing the need for a fresh start. The mention of Bernice being gone alludes to a romantic relationship that has ended, which amplifies the narrator's feelings of sadness and longing.

The desire to blow a lonesome horn signifies the need for the narrator to express their loneliness and maybe even seek solace in their music. The absence of Bernice exacerbates this yearning and amplifies the narrator's feelings of emptiness. The contemplation of leaving and riding the blinds further emphasizes the narrator's desperation to escape their mistreatment and find a sense of freedom. They have reached a breaking point where dying seems like a way to end their suffering, suggesting a feeling of hopelessness.

The lyrics also explore the perception of the blues by society. The narrator acknowledges that some people believe the blues aren't as significant or troubling as they actually are. However, for the narrator, the blues are the worst feeling they've ever experienced. This highlights the subjective nature of emotions and how different individuals perceive and cope with their struggles.

The final lines of the song shift the focus to a woman with an Elgin movement. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for her charm and gracefulness. The mention of her breaking on a dollar symbolizes her ability to captivate and make an impression effortlessly, regardless of the situation. This juxtaposition with the narrator's feelings of loss and mistreatment further emphasizes their longing for positive connections.

In essence, "Walking Blues" explores themes of loneliness, loss, mistreatment, and the subjective nature of emotions. It highlights the need for escape and the longing for connection and happiness.