Me And The Devil Blues

Robert Johnson's "Me And The Devil Blues" is a haunting song that delves into the mythology surrounding the legendary blues musician. The lyrics tell a story of a man who encounters Satan early in the morning and acknowledges that it's time for him to leave, implying a prearranged pact with the devil. This narrative is part of the larger mythos of Johnson allegedly selling his soul to the devil at a crossroads in exchange for his extraordinary musical talent, a story that has become a cornerstone of blues lore.

The song's verses describe a troubled relationship with a woman, where the protagonist speaks of beating his woman until he is satisfied. This disturbing line can be interpreted as a metaphor for the struggles and hardships in his life, or it could be a literal reflection of the domestic violence that was unfortunately not uncommon in the era and communities in which Johnson lived. The mention of the 'old evil spirit' suggests that the protagonist feels possessed or influenced by an external force, which could be the devil he references earlier or a metaphor for his own inner demons.

The final verse of the song touches on mortality and the afterlife, with the protagonist instructing where to bury his body. He expresses indifference to his own death, only caring that his 'evil spirit' has the means to continue its journey, possibly hinting at the restless, tormented soul of the bluesman. The Greyhound bus reference serves as a symbol of the ongoing travel and escape from one's troubles, a common theme in the blues genre. Overall, the song is a chilling reflection on the darker aspects of human nature, the supernatural, and the eternal struggle with inner demons.