Meaning of "St James" by The Devil Makes Three
"St James" is a blues song that tells a story of loss, death, and the narrator's desire for a grand send-off when he dies. The reference to St James Infirmary, a famous song and a place where the sick go to die, sets the tone for a somber narrative. The narrator recounts going to Old Joe's Barroom and hearing Big Joe McKenzie's lamentations about a lost love who died in the infirmary. The lyrics express both sadness and bitterness, as the narrator declares that his lover will never find anyone as sweet as him. The mention of being buried in a Stetson hat and having a gold piece on the watch hand speaks to the narrator's desire for a flashy burial, showing off his status and ensuring he leaves a lasting impression. Additionally, the request for a jazz band and crapshooters as pallbearers demonstrates a desire for a lively and celebrated funeral. The song ends with the narrator acknowledging that he carries the St James Infirmary blues, symbolizing a deep sense of sorrow and longing.
The lyrics of "St James" capture the essence of traditional blues music, which often explores themes of heartbreak, loss, and mortality. The reference to St James Infirmary specifically connects to a long-standing tradition in blues where infirmaries or hospitals are symbolic places of tragedy and death. Throughout the song, there is a stark contrast between the lively atmosphere of Joe's Barroom and the mournful tales of St James Infirmary. This juxtaposition reflects the harsh reality of life and death, where people try to find solace and forget their troubles amidst the backdrop of uncertainty and mortality.
The choice of burial details in the lyrics is particularly interesting, as it reveals the narrator's desire to leave a lasting impression even after death. The Stetson hat and gold piece on the watch hand represent material wealth and status, emphasizing the narrator's wish for recognition and grandeur. The request for a jazz band on the hearse wagon further strengthens this desire for a vibrant and memorable send-off. It speaks to the cultural significance of music in the blues, keeping spirits high even in the face of mortality.
Overall, "St James" delves into the universal themes of loss, death, and the longing for recognition. It embodies the spirit of traditional blues music, where storytelling and melancholic emotions intertwine. The lyrics offer a glimpse into the narrator's internal struggles, conveying a sense of sadness, bitterness, and a desperate need for validation. Through its narrative and imagery, "St James" invites listeners to contemplate the transient nature of life and the enduring power of music in the face of tragedy.
