Sweet Honey Hole
Blind Boy Fuller
The Allure of the Sweet Honey Hole: A Bluesman's Tale
Blind Boy Fuller's song "Sweet Honey Hole" is a classic example of the double entendre often found in blues music. On the surface, the song appears to be about a man's deep affection for honey, a sweet and satisfying treat. However, the repeated references to the "sweet honey hole" and the context of the lyrics suggest a more intimate and sensual meaning. Fuller uses the metaphor of honey to describe a woman's sexual allure and the satisfaction he derives from it. This metaphor is a common trope in blues music, where everyday objects and experiences are used to convey deeper, often taboo, subjects.
The lyrics emphasize the singer's desire and need for this "honey" at all times of the day, indicating a constant longing and dependency. The lines "If I don't get my honey, don't believe I'm treated just right" suggest that the singer feels incomplete or mistreated without this intimate connection. This reflects the intense emotional and physical bond he shares with his lover, highlighting the importance of this relationship in his life.
Furthermore, the song touches on themes of jealousy and possessiveness. The singer warns others to stay away from his "honey," implying that his lover's allure is so powerful that it could drive other men to distraction. The line "What a single man wants with a married man's wife" adds a layer of complexity, hinting at infidelity and the complications of romantic entanglements. Blind Boy Fuller, known for his expressive and often risqué lyrics, captures the raw emotions and social dynamics of love and desire in this evocative blues tune.