Guy Clark’s “Let Him Roll” is a song that tells the story of a man who works at a car dealership and becomes friends with an old man who comes in to buy a car. Through flashbacks, we learn that the old man used to be a successful gambler and womanizer, but now he’s penniless and alone. The protagonist of the song has a soft spot for the old man and takes him under his wing, but when the old man dies, he reflects on the fragility of life and how we’re all just “riding on that big ol’ wheel.”
Table of Contents
The song is a poignant reflection on the human condition and the universal struggles we all face, no matter where we come from or what our background is. It highlights the importance of empathy and compassion, and how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. The song is also a warning against the dangers of addiction and the destructive power it can have over our lives.
FAQs
1. Is Let Him Roll based on a true story?
Yes, the song is partially based on a true story. Guy Clark has said in interviews that the song was inspired by a friend of his who worked at a car dealership and became friends with an old man who used to be a gambler. However, the details of the story have been changed.
2. What is the significance of the title, Let Him Roll?
The title is a twist on the phrase “let it ride,” which is a gambling term that means to let your winnings ride on the next bet. In the song, it’s used as a metaphor for the protagonist’s attitude towards life; he’s willing to take chances and let things happen as they will.
3. What is the meaning of the line, “old bones are weary and it ain’t easy to admit”?
This line is a reference to the fact that as we get older, our bodies start to break down and we become more aware of our mortality. It’s a reminder that life is short and we should make the most of the time we have.
4. What is the significance of the line, “don’t take your love to town”?
This line is a reference to the Kenny Rogers song “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town,” which is about a disabled veteran whose wife goes out to cheat on him while he’s unable to stop her. In “Let Him Roll,” the line is used as a warning against the dangers of infidelity and the destructive power it can have over our lives.
5. What genre of music does Let Him Roll belong to?
Let Him Roll is classified as a country/folk song.
6. Who wrote Let Him Roll?
Let Him Roll was written by Guy Clark.
7. What other songs has Guy Clark written?
Guy Clark is known for writing many classic country and folk songs, including “Desperados Waiting For A Train,” “The Cape,” and “Dublin Blues.”
8. What album is Let Him Roll on?
Let Him Roll is on Guy Clark’s 1995 album “Dublin Blues.”
9. What is the significance of the line, “the wheels go around and around”?
This line is a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life; we’re born, we live, and we die, and the cycle continues. It’s a reminder that we should appreciate the time we have and make the most of it.
10. What is the message of Let Him Roll?
The message of Let Him Roll is one of compassion, empathy, and the importance of making connections with others. It’s a reminder that no matter how different we may seem on the surface, we all share a common humanity and struggle with many of the same things.
11. Who has covered Let Him Roll?
Let Him Roll has been covered by several artists, including Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, and Robert Earl Keen.
12. What awards has Let Him Roll won?
Let Him Roll has not won any awards, but it is considered a classic of the country/folk genre and has been praised for its poignant lyrics and heartfelt message.
