The Meaning Behind The Song: “What I Really Mean” by Robert Earl Keen
Introduction
I first heard the song “What I Really Mean” by Robert Earl Keen on a road trip with my friends. We were driving through the vast landscapes of the American South, soaking in the sights and sounds of different cities. As the song filled the car, I couldn’t help but be captivated by its heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody. It became the soundtrack of our journey, and every time I listen to it now, it takes me back to those unforgettable moments.
Exploring the Lyrics
The song begins with Keen recounting a road trip from Albuquerque to Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and then on to New Orleans just in time for Mardi Gras. The lively and somewhat chaotic atmosphere of Mardi Gras is vividly described, setting the stage for what Keen truly means. He wishes the person he is addressing were there to witness the excitement and share in the experience. It’s in these moments that we realize how much we miss someone close to our hearts, and how their absence can make joyous occasions feel incomplete.
Moving on to Memphis, Tennessee, the song paints a picture of Keen and his friends reveling in the vibrant atmosphere of Beale Street. The blues, the booze, and the barbecues create a sense of camaraderie and celebration. Keen longs for his loved one to be present, emphasizing their importance to him by highlighting the good times they could have and the crowd they would draw. The lyrics portray a yearning for companionship and the shared joy that the presence of loved ones brings.
In the middle of the song, Keen’s sentiments become more direct as he sends a postcard to the person he is missing, reassuring them that he is fine. This act of reaching out and thinking of someone while far away serves as a poignant reminder of the constant bond between two individuals, no matter the distance.
The song then takes us through more stops along the road trip, from experiencing a breakdown in Kentucky to meeting friends in Charlotte and playing on the radio. Keen wishes his loved one had been there during these moments to witness the highs and lows, and to share in the experiences that shape his life.
Finally, Keen expresses his weariness as he describes being in a bustling city, reminiscent of Disneyland. Despite the excitement, he can’t help but long for the comfort of home. In his dream, he envisions his loved one waiting for him upon his return, underscoring the importance of their presence and the yearning for their company.
Conclusion
“What I Really Mean” by Robert Earl Keen resonates with anyone who has ever missed someone dearly while on a journey or experienced the joy of sharing adventures with loved ones. The song captures the essence of human connection and how our experiences are enriched by the presence of those we hold dear. Each line is imbued with the sincerity and longing felt when distance separates us from the ones we love.
The lyrics serve as a reminder to cherish the relationships in our lives and to acknowledge the profound impact our loved ones have on our experiences, even when they are physically absent. They remind us that the memories we create together, and the longing we feel when apart, are what bring meaning and depth to our lives. “What I Really Mean” is a beautiful ode to the power of love, longing, and the importance of human connection.