Dat dere

Rickie Lee Jones' song 'Dat Dere' beautifully captures the essence of childhood curiosity and the endless stream of questions that children often have. The lyrics are a series of questions posed by a child to their mother, reflecting the natural inquisitiveness and wonder that children possess. The repeated inquiries about various objects and situations, such as 'what's that there?' and 'where do we get air?' highlight the child's desire to understand the world around them. The recurring request for 'that big elephant over there' symbolizes the child's longing for something grand and unattainable, a common theme in the dreams and desires of young minds.

The song also touches on the challenges faced by parents in addressing their children's questions and guiding them through life's complexities. The lines 'Quit talking! There's no more anything here!' and 'Sometimes the questions get filed!' reveal the occasional frustration and overwhelm that parents experience. Despite this, the song emphasizes the importance of nurturing a child's curiosity and providing them with the knowledge and support they need to grow. The verse 'I'll help her along, and she'll be strong, and she'll know right from wrong' underscores the parental commitment to raising a well-rounded and informed individual.

'As life's parade goes marching by, she's gonna need to know some reasons why' reflects the inevitable passage of time and the growth of the child. The song acknowledges that while parents may not have all the answers, their efforts to educate and guide their children are crucial. The repeated refrain of 'Mummy, can I have that big elephant over there?' serves as a poignant reminder of the innocence and simplicity of childhood desires, contrasting with the complexities of the adult world. Rickie Lee Jones' soulful delivery and the song's gentle melody further enhance the nostalgic and tender mood, making 'Dat Dere' a touching tribute to the bond between parent and child.