Meaning of "Hustle And Cuss" by The Dead Weather

"Hustle And Cuss" delves into the idea of growing older and realizing the harsh realities of life, contrasting it with the carefree days of youth when playing in the mud meant something else entirely. The repetition of "hustle and cuss" highlights the cycle of struggle and disappointment that has become ingrained in the speaker's existence. The lines "Must you muscle and fuss? / You muscle and fuss and lick on the dust" convey a sense of resignation and defeat, questioning the purpose of putting in effort when the outcomes are unsatisfactory. The references to being easy to fool and easy to catch suggest a vulnerability that comes with experience and a reluctance to engage in risky endeavors. Overall, the lyrics seem to paint a picture of a weary individual reflecting on the passing of time and the realization that life may not always turn out as hoped.