St. James Infirmary

The song 'St. James Infirmary' as performed by Cab Calloway is a classic example of American blues, with a rich history in jazz and folk traditions. The lyrics tell a story of a man visiting the St. James Infirary, a hospital, to see his deceased lover. The imagery is stark and somber, with the woman laid out on a table, evoking a sense of finality and deep loss. The narrator's request to 'let her go' and the blessing for her soul suggest a resignation to her death, while also hinting at the depth of his attachment to her.

The second part of the song shifts from the scene at the infirmary to the narrator's own reflections on death and how he wishes to be remembered. He describes his funeral attire and the extravagant items he wants with him, like a twenty-dollar gold piece and a Stetson hat, symbolizing a life lived with a certain flair. The request for a jazz band and a festive atmosphere at his funeral contrasts with the somber tone of the first part, suggesting a celebration of life rather than mourning death. This duality captures the essence of the blues - the coexistence of sorrow and the celebration of life's fleeting moments.

Calloway's rendition of 'St. James Infirmary' is imbued with the characteristic energy of his performances, yet it maintains the mournful tone of the lyrics. The song is a reflection on mortality, love, and the human condition, delivered through the lens of jazz and blues. It's a narrative that resonates with the inevitability of death and the desire to leave a mark, to be remembered with a sense of dignity and perhaps a touch of bravado.