I Got A Strange Feeling

Buddy Guy's song "I Got A Strange Feeling" delves into the realm of intuition and the unsettling sense of foreboding. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is experiencing a deep, inexplicable unease. The repeated mention of his left eye jumping serves as a metaphor for an instinctual warning, a physical manifestation of his inner turmoil. This is a common theme in blues music, where bodily sensations often symbolize emotional or spiritual distress. The phrase "some other mule is kickin' in my stall" suggests infidelity or betrayal, indicating that the protagonist suspects his partner of being unfaithful. This suspicion is not based on concrete evidence but rather on a gut feeling, which adds to the song's tension and emotional depth.

The song also touches on themes of powerlessness and confusion. The protagonist's inability to determine which way to go when his left eye jumps signifies his lack of control over the situation. He feels as though his partner has some mystical power over him, as indicated by the line "my baby has got a black cat bone." In folklore, a black cat bone is often associated with magic and control, suggesting that the protagonist feels ensnared by his partner's actions and intentions. This adds a layer of complexity to the song, as it explores the psychological impact of suspicion and the feeling of being manipulated.

Buddy Guy's delivery of the lyrics, combined with the soulful, melancholic tones of the blues, amplifies the song's emotional weight. His expressive voice and guitar work create an atmosphere of tension and sorrow, making the listener feel the protagonist's strange, unsettling feeling. The song is a powerful exploration of human intuition, the pain of betrayal, and the struggle to navigate through emotional uncertainty. It captures the essence of the blues genre, where personal suffering and emotional expression are intertwined in a deeply moving way.