Get Behind The Mule

Tom Waits' song 'Get Behind The Mule' is a gritty, evocative piece that delves into themes of perseverance, hardship, and the relentless grind of life. The recurring refrain, 'Got to get behind the Mule in the morning and plow,' serves as a metaphor for the necessity of hard work and determination, regardless of the obstacles one faces. This central message is underscored by the vivid, often dark imagery that Waits employs throughout the song.

The song opens with a tale of Molly and Jimmy the Harp, setting a tone of struggle and violence. Molly's descent 'to the bottom' and her inability to 'carry it' reflect the weight of burdens that individuals often bear. Despite these challenges, the refrain insists on the need to keep pushing forward, symbolized by the act of plowing behind the mule. This imagery of manual labor and toil is a powerful representation of the human condition, emphasizing resilience and the importance of continuing to work hard even when faced with seemingly insurmountable difficulties.

Throughout the song, Waits introduces a cast of characters, each with their own stories of struggle and perseverance. Big Jack Earl, who 'couldn't make her love him,' and the 'rampaging sons of the widow James' who must confront their actions, all embody the theme of facing one's challenges head-on. The song's narrative is interspersed with surreal and sometimes cryptic lines, such as 'I'm diggin all the way to China with a silver spoon,' which add to the song's rich tapestry of meaning. These lines suggest a sense of futility and the absurdity of some efforts, yet the refrain's insistence on getting behind the mule and plowing remains a steadfast call to action.

In the final verses, Waits offers a glimmer of hope and wisdom. The advice to 'never let the weeds get higher than the garden' and to 'always keep a sapphire in your mind' serves as a reminder to maintain clarity and focus amidst chaos. This blend of dark realism and hopeful resilience is characteristic of Waits' musical style, which often combines raw, unfiltered storytelling with profound, poetic insights. 'Get Behind The Mule' is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the relentless pursuit of progress, no matter the odds.