Meaning of "I Had Me A Girl" by The Civil Wars

"I Had Me A Girl" explores themes of love, faith, and the transformative power of relationships. The song reflects on the narrator's experiences with two significant individuals who had a profound impact on their life. The girl taught the narrator about the importance of prayer, presenting a spiritual journey where the narrator saw glimpses of Heaven on a daily basis. However, despite her influence, she had a wandering nature. This suggests that while she provided guidance in the realm of faith, she was also transient and unpredictable.

On the other hand, the boy played a different role in the narrator's life. He "buttoned [them] down" and drew a line, symbolizing a sense of stability and structure. This individual taught the narrator to pray as well, but in a different way. While the girl's influence introduced a sense of wonder and spiritual connection, the boy's influence brought discipline and an understanding of cleanliness and purity. Through his guidance, the narrator found a path towards redemption and found "the light."

The lyrics also make reference to a "back door man," adding an element of complexity to the narrator's experiences. This phrase typically refers to a secret lover or someone who is involved in a secretive affair. It suggests that the narrator's relationship with the girl may have been illicit or hidden from others. The mention of slipping through this person's hands indicates a certain level of freedom and rebellion.

Overall, "I Had Me A Girl" explores the varied lessons and influences that people can have on our lives. Through these relationships, the narrator learns about faith, spirituality, discipline, and the complexity of love. The song highlights the transformative power of these connections and the impact they can have on our personal growth and understanding of the world.