Meaning of "Leaving Trunk" by Taj Mahal

The lyrics of "Leaving Trunk" by Taj Mahal explore themes of escape, secrecy, and the blues. The narrator is packing his "leavin' trunk" and intends to leave his current situation for a better one in Memphis. The mention of whiskey and being "sloppy drunk" implies that the narrator may be using alcohol as a means of escape or dealing with the blues.

The conversation with the woman reveals a clandestine relationship. She asks him to keep their connection hidden from her husband. This introduces an element of secrecy and perhaps the thrill of forbidden love. The mention of the woman's husband adds tension to the narrative, suggesting potential consequences if their affair is discovered.

The blues serve as a recurring motif throughout the song, reflecting the narrator's emotional state. The narrator wakes up with the blues "three different ways," indicating the complexity and confusion of his feelings. The conflicting advice he receives on whether to stay or go represents the internal struggle he faces. The blues become a source of guidance, with one voice urging him to leave while the other two voices encourage him to stay. This internal conflict could symbolize the narrator's ambivalence about leaving or the difficulty of making a decision.

The final verse suggests a sense of resignation or acceptance. The narrator tells the woman he loves to sing the blues, implying that he identifies with the pain and melancholy of the genre. Despite the turmoil surrounding his departure, he ultimately returns home, metaphorically laying down on the lawn. This could indicate a desire for simplicity, stability, or a retreat from the complexities and uncertainties of the outside world.

Overall, "Leaving Trunk" delves into themes of escape, secrecy, and the emotional turmoil conveyed through the blues. The song portrays the narrator grappling with difficult choices and the desire for a better future while being pulled back by the familiarity and comfort of home.