Monday Morning Blues

Mississippi John Hurt's 'Monday Morning Blues' is a poignant reflection on the burdens and sorrows that often accompany the start of the week. The song opens with the repetitive lament of waking up with the 'Monday morning blues,' a phrase that encapsulates a universal feeling of dread and weariness that many people experience as they face the beginning of a new workweek. This repetition not only emphasizes the depth of his despair but also mirrors the monotonous and cyclical nature of life's struggles.

As the song progresses, Hurt delves deeper into his personal hardships. The mention of not being able to find his 'Monday morning shoes' symbolizes a sense of disorientation and unpreparedness, further highlighting the overwhelming nature of his blues. The aches in his bones and the feeling of being compelled to leave his home suggest a physical and emotional toll that extends beyond mere inconvenience, hinting at a deeper, more existential malaise.

The narrative takes a darker turn as Hurt reveals his imprisonment and impending trial. The imagery of a pick and shovel and going down into the mine evokes a sense of hard labor and punishment, reflecting the harsh realities faced by many during Hurt's time. The sorrow and tears he describes are not just personal but resonate with a collective experience of suffering and injustice. Through his soulful delivery and evocative lyrics, Hurt captures the essence of the human condition, making 'Monday Morning Blues' a timeless anthem of resilience and sorrow.