Hi-jack Blues

Walter Davis's 'Hi-jack Blues' is a poignant exploration of emotional turmoil and the darker impulses that arise from heartbreak. The song's lyrics convey a deep sense of betrayal and confusion, as the narrator grapples with the departure of a loved one. The repeated lines, 'I got a mind to ramble, I got a mind to rob an steal,' reflect a state of inner chaos and a desire to escape or act out in response to the pain. This sense of desperation is further emphasized by the mention of 'hi-jack,' suggesting a willingness to go to extreme lengths to cope with the emotional distress.

The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative, particularly in the lines where the narrator stands and looks over the avenue, observing every action of his 'little ol' baby.' This scene paints a picture of a man who is both physically and emotionally stuck, unable to move on from the relationship. The mention of receiving a telegram indicating that his baby is heading out west adds a layer of finality and abandonment, intensifying the narrator's sense of loss and helplessness.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of love and disbelief. The narrator's love for his baby is evident, but so is his struggle to comprehend her actions. The line, 'But maybe I'll have confidence in her, some long old lonesome day,' hints at a glimmer of hope, albeit distant and uncertain. The song concludes with a sense of unresolved sorrow, as the narrator admits to crying in his sleep, a testament to the deep emotional impact of the breakup. Walter Davis's bluesy piano accompaniment underscores the melancholic mood, making 'Hi-jack Blues' a powerful expression of heartache and the complexities of human emotions.