Billy The Kid

Wood's song "Billy the Kid" is a poignant ballad that recounts the life and tragic end of the infamous outlaw, Billy the Kid. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Billy's life, starting from his early years in Silver City, where he first turned to a life of crime at the tender age of twelve. The song captures the essence of the Wild West, a time when survival often depended on one's skill with a gun, and lawlessness was rampant.

The narrative continues to describe Billy's rise to infamy, highlighting his reputation as the 'Boy Bandit King.' The lyrics mention the fair Mexican maidens who sing of his deeds, emphasizing his notoriety and the romanticized view of his life. Despite his young age, Billy had already claimed the lives of twenty-one men, a testament to his violent path. The song also touches on the inevitability of his fate, as Billy himself acknowledges his dissatisfaction and desire to add one more name to his list, that of Sheriff Pat Garrett.

The climax of the song details Billy's demise at the hands of Pat Garrett, a former friend turned adversary. The imagery of the bright moon shining on the night of his death adds a somber tone to the narrative. The final verse serves as a moral reflection, suggesting that many men, despite having the potential for a good life, can easily stray and meet a tragic end, much like Billy. This ballad not only tells the story of a legendary outlaw but also serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of a life of crime.