Song of a Baker

The song 'Song of a Baker' by Small Faces, from their album 'Ogdens' Nut Gone Flake,' is a poetic exploration of labor, hunger, and the pursuit of fulfillment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a baker's life, using the basic elements of wheat, water, and salt as metaphors for the essential ingredients not just in baking, but in life itself. The aching mentioned in the first verse symbolizes a deeper, existential hunger that drives the protagonist to action.

The recurring theme of hunger in the song is both literal and metaphorical. On one hand, it represents the physical need for food, but on a deeper level, it signifies a yearning for purpose and meaning. The baker's labor—juggling water, baking flour, and storing salt—becomes a ritualistic act, a way to channel this hunger into something productive and fulfilling. The act of baking is not just about making bread; it's about creating something tangible and meaningful from basic, raw materials.

The song also touches on the concept of love and its role in the baker's life. When the lyrics mention 'thinking of love' and 'love is thinking for me,' it suggests that love is both a motivator and a guiding force. The baker's labor is not just for sustenance but also for love, perhaps for a loved one or for the love of the craft itself. This duality adds a layer of emotional depth to the song, making it a rich tapestry of human experience and aspiration.