Don't Start Me To Talkin'

Sonny Boy Williamson II's 'Don't Start Me To Talkin'' is a blues classic that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of gossip. The song's narrator positions himself as a potential whistleblower, someone who knows all the secrets and is ready to spill them if provoked. This creates a sense of tension and urgency, as the listener is drawn into the drama unfolding within the lyrics.

The song opens with the narrator overhearing a conversation and threatening to reveal what he knows. This sets the stage for a series of vignettes that illustrate the destructive power of gossip. For instance, the story of Jack and his wife highlights how easily misunderstandings and lies can escalate into violence and mistrust. The wife's encounter with George, who assaults her, and her subsequent lie to her husband, underscores the theme of deception and the fragile nature of trust.

In another scenario, a woman borrows money to go to the beauty shop but is distracted by a man who offers her a ride. This seemingly innocent interaction is loaded with implications, suggesting infidelity or at least the potential for it. The repeated refrain, 'Don't start me to talkin', I'll tell everything I know,' serves as a warning that secrets are precarious and can be exposed at any moment, leading to significant consequences. Through these stories, Williamson captures the essence of human frailty and the ripple effects of our actions, making the song a poignant commentary on the social dynamics of his time.