About the song
“Howlin’ At The Moon: A Classic Country Lament”
Hank Williams, a name synonymous with country music’s golden era, left an indelible mark on the genre. One of his most iconic songs, “Howlin’ at the Moon”, is a poignant ballad that encapsulates the raw emotion and heartbreak that defined Williams’ music. Released in 1951, this song continues to resonate with listeners today, offering a timeless exploration of love, loss, and the human condition.
At first glance, “Howlin’ at the Moon” might seem like a simple country tune. However, its lyrics reveal a deeper, more complex narrative. Williams paints a vivid picture of a man consumed by love, a love so intense that it has driven him to the brink of madness. The imagery of “chasin’ rabbits” and “spittin’ out teeth” is both humorous and heartbreaking, serving as a metaphor for the chaotic state of the narrator’s mind.
The song’s title, “Howlin’ at the Moon”, is a powerful symbol of loneliness and despair. The moon, often associated with melancholy and introspection, represents the narrator’s isolation. By “howlin’ at the moon,” Williams suggests that the protagonist is reaching out for something, anything, to alleviate his suffering. This theme of yearning for connection is a universal one, and it is what makes “Howlin’ at the Moon” so relatable to listeners of all ages.
Musically, “Howlin’ at the Moon” is a prime example of Williams’ songwriting prowess. The melody is simple yet haunting, and the lyrics are delivered with a raw emotional intensity that is both captivating and heartbreaking. The song’s arrangement is sparse, allowing Williams’ vocals to take center stage. This stripped-down approach creates a sense of intimacy, drawing the listener in and making them feel as though they are sharing in the singer’s pain.
“Howlin’ at the Moon” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of country music. Williams’ ability to capture the complexities of the human heart in such a straightforward and honest manner is what has made him a legend. This song, along with so many others in his vast catalog, continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
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Lyrics
I know there’s never been a man in the awful shape I’m in
I can’t even spell my name, my heads in such a spin
Today I tried to eat a steak with a big old tablespoon
You got me chasing rabbits, walkin’ on my hands, and howlin’ at the Moon
Well, sug’, I took one look at you and it almost drove me mad
And then I even went and lost what little sense I had
Now I can’t tell the day from night, I’m crazy as a loon
You got me chasing rabbits, pulling out my hair, and howlin’ at the Moon
Some friends of mine asked me to go out on a huntin’ spree
‘Cause there ain’t a hound dog in this state that can hold a light to me
I eat three bones for dinner today, then tried to tree a ‘Coon
You got me chasing rabbits, scratching fleas, and howlin’ at the Moon
I rode my horse to town today and a gas pump we did pass
I pulled ‘im up and I hollered, “Whoa!” And said, “Fill him up with gas”
The man picked up a monkey wrench and wham, he changed my tune
You got me chasing rabbits, spittin’ out teeth, and howlin’ at the Moon
I never thought in this whole world a fool could fall so hard
But honey baby, when I fell, the whole world must have jarred
I think I’d quit my doggish ways if you’d take me for your groom
You got me chasing rabbits, pickin’ out rings, and howlin’ at the Moon