The lyrics of "Blues in the Bottle" talk about a man feeling betrayed by a woman who mistreated his pets, and boasts about going to a bull race to see his friends run with a promise to give his prize to his baby. He then mentions going to Silly Putty but refuses to take the woman with him because he doesn't want a woman who sniffs glue.

Meaning of "Blues in the Bottle" by The Lovin' Spoonful

The lyrics of "Blues in the Bottle" depict a man's frustration with a woman who has wronged him, symbolized by mistreating his pets, showing a lack of compassion and care. The mention of going to a bull race with friends could represent a desire to escape or find camaraderie elsewhere. The refusal to take the woman to Silly Putty due to her habit of sniffing glue could indicate a rejection of someone engaged in harmful or unhealthy behaviors. Overall, the lyrics convey themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.