Friend Of The Devil

Mumford & Sons' rendition of 'Friend Of The Devil' is a captivating tale of a man on the run, grappling with the consequences of his actions and the relentless pursuit of his past. The song opens with the protagonist fleeing from Reno, pursued by twenty hounds, a metaphor for the inescapable troubles that haunt him. The sleepless night he endures symbolizes the constant anxiety and unrest that accompany his fugitive lifestyle.

The recurring line, 'A friend of the devil is a friend of mine,' suggests a complex relationship with temptation and moral ambiguity. The devil, in this context, represents the vices and poor decisions that the protagonist has befriended, leading him into a life of evasion and deceit. His encounters with the devil, who loans him money and later takes it back, highlight the cyclical nature of his struggles and the fleeting relief that his choices provide.

The protagonist's personal life is equally tumultuous, with references to 'sweet Anne Marie' and the sheriff on his trail, symbolizing the dual pressures of love and law. His mention of having wives in different towns further complicates his narrative, painting a picture of a man ensnared by his own lies and commitments. The song's refrain, 'Set out runnin' but I take my time,' underscores the inevitability of his fate, as he attempts to outrun his demons while acknowledging the futility of his efforts. Ultimately, 'Friend Of The Devil' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, the consequences of our choices, and the relentless pursuit of redemption.