The Meaning Behind The Song: “The Milk Of Human Kindness” by Procol Harum
| Title | The Milk Of Human Kindness |
|---|---|
| Artist | Procol Harum |
| Writer/Composer | Gary Brooker, Keith Reid |
| Album | A Salty Dog (1969) |
| Release Date | June 1969 |
| Genre | Rock |
| Duration | 3:41 |
| Producer | Matthew Fisher |
The Deep Meaning of “The Milk Of Human Kindness”
“The Milk Of Human Kindness,” written by Gary Brooker and Keith Reid, is a captivating track from Procol Harum’s album “A Salty Dog.” Delving into the lyrics, the song captures the complexities of human relationships and the disappointment that can arise when trust is broken.
The opening lines, “When you knew that I had given all the kindness that I had, Did you think that it might be time to stop?” immediately set the tone for reflection and introspection. The narrator questions whether their efforts to show kindness have been in vain, and if the other person even considered the consequences of their actions.
The use of metaphors in the song is striking. Phrases such as “Did you really have to milk the final drop?” and “Not content with my mistake, you behaved just like a snake” paint vivid imagery of someone draining every last bit of kindness and exploiting their partner’s vulnerabilities. This imagery creates a sense of betrayal and deepens the emotional impact of the lyrics.
As the song progresses, the narrator reveals feelings of abandonment and insignificance. They lament, “Tell all my friends back home, That I did it on my own, And that to their well-worn cares they should cling.” These lines highlight the narrator’s desire to save face and maintain their independence despite the heartbreak they have endured.
A Personal Reflection
“The Milk Of Human Kindness” holds a special place in my heart. It was during a difficult period in my life that I stumbled upon this song, and its lyrics resonated deeply with me. The emotional depth and vulnerability expressed in the lyrics spoke to my own experiences of being taken for granted and feeling used in a relationship.
The song connected with me on a profound level, as it encapsulated the pain I felt when someone I cared for exploited my kindness and chose to abandon me for someone less deserving. The raw honesty and poetic storytelling of Procol Harum touched a chord within me, providing solace and understanding during a time of heartache.
“The Milk Of Human Kindness” serves as a timeless reminder of the significance we place on kindness and the repercussions when it is misused or taken for granted. It teaches us to appreciate the value of empathy and understanding in our relationships, and to be cautious in trusting others with our vulnerabilities.
In conclusion, “The Milk Of Human Kindness” by Procol Harum is a poignant exploration of the intricacies of human relationships. Its introspective lyrics and powerful metaphors reveal the pain and disappointment that can arise when genuine kindness is abused. This song has personally touched me and provided solace during challenging times, reminding me of the importance of maintaining self-respect and recognizing the true value of the milk of human kindness.
