Keep The Wolves Away

Uncle Lucius's song 'Keep The Wolves Away' paints a vivid picture of the hardships faced by working-class families in industrial areas. The lyrics begin with a description of the singer's birthplace near the Brazos River, setting the scene in a region dominated by chemical plants that provide employment but also bring pollution and health risks. The 'wolves' in the song symbolize the constant threats of financial instability, illness, and environmental hazards that loom over the lives of the working man and his family.

The narrative takes a personal turn as the singer recounts a traumatic event from his youth, where his father was critically injured in an industrial accident. This incident highlights the dangers that workers face in such environments and the long-term consequences of such accidents on individuals and their families. The father's struggle to recover and the subsequent financial difficulties underscore the resilience required to 'keep the wolves away'—a metaphor for fighting to maintain a semblance of security and normalcy in the face of adversity.

The song concludes with the singer stepping into the role his father once held, using his music as a means to fend off the hardships that once plagued his family. This generational shift in responsibility reflects the ongoing battle against economic and social challenges that many face. 'Keep The Wolves Away' is a poignant reminder of the strength and determination required to protect and provide for one's family, and the song resonates with anyone who has faced similar struggles.