Big Mable Murphy

Tennessee Ernie Ford's song "Big Mable Murphy" is a vivid narrative set in the late 1920s in a honky-tonk bar in Coffeeville. The song paints a colorful picture of the titular character, Big Mable Murphy, and her tumultuous relationship with her sweetheart, Little Melvin. The lyrics describe a rough-and-tumble love story where Mable's physical dominance over Melvin is a recurring theme. Despite the frequent fights, it's clear that Mable deeply cares for Melvin, even if her way of showing it is through her fists. This dynamic sets the stage for a tale of loyalty and retribution.

The song takes a dark turn when Scarface Mouzziola, a menacing figure, enters the scene and fatally shoots Little Melvin. This act of violence triggers a swift and brutal response from Big Mable Murphy. The next morning, Scarface is found dead by the river, bearing the same marks of violence that Melvin often woke up with—black eyes and knuckle bumps. This suggests that Mable took justice into her own hands, avenging Melvin's death in a manner that reflects her fierce loyalty and love.

The final verse of the song adds a layer of melancholy to the story. Even after Mable's death, her bar continues to thrive, but she is remembered for her love and the lengths she went to protect it. The poignant line where Mable wishes she could once more black Melvin's eyes underscores the complexity of their relationship. It suggests that despite the violence, there was a deep bond between them, and Mable's actions were driven by a profound sense of love and loyalty. The song encapsulates themes of love, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life in a bygone era, making it a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.