Big Rock Candy Mountain

“Big Rock Candy Mountain” by Harry McClintock is a whimsical and nostalgic song that paints a vivid picture of a hobo's utopia. The song, written in the early 20th century, reflects the dreams and desires of the American hobo community during the Great Depression. The lyrics describe an idyllic place where life is easy, and all the hardships of the road are left behind. This fantastical land is filled with endless pleasures and comforts, a stark contrast to the harsh realities faced by the hobos of that era.

The song opens with a hobo inviting others to join him on a journey to the Big Rock Candy Mountain, a place where “handouts grow on bushes” and “you sleep out every night.” This imagery evokes a sense of abundance and freedom, where the basic needs of food and shelter are effortlessly met. The mention of “boxcars all are empty” and “the sun shines every day” further emphasizes the carefree and bountiful nature of this utopia. The whimsical elements, such as “cigarette trees” and “lemonade springs,” add a touch of fantasy, making the Big Rock Candy Mountain a place of childlike wonder and delight.

As the song progresses, the lyrics continue to describe the absurd and humorous aspects of this dreamland. Cops with wooden legs, bulldogs with rubber teeth, and hens that lay soft-boiled eggs create a surreal and comical vision of a world where everything is designed for ease and comfort. The idea of “little streams of alcohol” and a “lake of stew and whiskey” further highlights the indulgent and carefree lifestyle that the hobos long for. The final verses, with jails made of tin and the absence of hard labor, underscore the desire for freedom and leisure, culminating in the ultimate fantasy of a place where “they hung the jerk that invented work.”

“Big Rock Candy Mountain” captures the essence of escapism and the longing for a better life. It reflects the hopes and dreams of those who faced economic hardship and social marginalization, offering a glimpse into a world where all their troubles are left behind. The song's playful and imaginative lyrics continue to resonate, reminding us of the universal human desire for a place of peace, plenty, and happiness.