Expert: Kristen - 4/12/2005

Question
What are some of Dave songs that would be good to do on a paper on folklore? One song that I want to write about is One Sweet World and I wanted to know what kind of lore might be in this song.

Thanks,

Richard

Answer
Hi Richard!  "One Sweet World" is a great song and I'm good with DMB, but I'm not too good with folklore.  All I can say is that "Rapunzel" is a song that involves folklore.  The story of Rapunzel has been passed on from generation to generation.  "Gravedigger" has the saying "Ashes to ashes we all fall down" in it and that's an old folklore saying.  "Bartender" deals with parts of the bible.  "Long Black Veil" by Johnny Cash, which DMB does a rendition of, is a folklore song.  You can check the lyrics out at www.sing365.com.  The story within the song is very easy to follow.  You can check out other song lyrics at this website as well.  Many of Dave's songs are philosophical and have to do with the Bible and death.  "One Sweet World" is about taking care of and enjoying the beautiful earth that we have because this is the only place we will be.  We will live and die here.   You can also check out www.songmeanings.net and check out some other interpretations of DMB songs.  Like I said, I'm not really good with folklore and that kind of stuff, so I hope the suggestions I've made help you.  Thanks for your question!