Father John Lyrics by Dead South
Dead South Lyrics
Meaning of the song:
"Father John" by The Dead South is a narrative-driven song that explores themes of power, morality, and the consequences of actions under the guise of religious authority. The song portrays Father John as a complex character, depicted as both "filthy" and devout, who exerts a significant influence over his community. Through the lyrics, the band tells a story of Father John passing judgment and executing punishment on those he deems wicked, illustrating the blend of fear and reverence he inspires among the people.
The narrative unfolds in a small community, where rumors and actions attributed to Father John carry dire consequences for those caught in his moral judgment. The song describes how young boys, caught near Beckett Brook, face a grim fate under Father John's decree, highlighting the tragic impact of his actions on their families and the broader community. The repeated references to "the other side of the mountains" serve as a metaphor for the finality of death and the unreachable place where those punished by Father John are sent, emphasizing the permanence of his judgments.
Musically, "Father John" is consistent with The Dead South's signature style, blending elements of bluegrass, folk, and Americana with compelling storytelling. The song's arrangement and the band's performance enhance the narrative, drawing listeners into the story and the emotional landscape it creates. The Dead South's ability to craft songs that explore dark and complex themes, while maintaining their distinctive sound, is evident in "Father John," as it is throughout their album "Chains & Stakes".
Lyrics:
Father John was a filthy man
But he loved his God
Sitting by his window late last night he sang a song
About the ways he put them wicked ones away
And on the other side of the mountains where they lay
On the other side of the mountains where they'll stay
Rumours on the street
Well, I hear they're coming true
That filthy man he caught 'em
Put 'em on a noose
'Cause every word he said
The people ate out of his hand
With just one crying word
You could be dead
With just one crying word
You could be dead
They caught 'em up near Beckett Brook
When the crew came riding through
They rounded up they young boys
Chased 'em through the slough
I heard one drowned while the others
Hung around
Father John caught prey
With heavy eyes their momma's
The came to weep
Looking down at their young boys
Father John did reap
Them away from the land
And all the families that they had
And on other side of the mountains where they lay
On the other side of the mountains where they'll stay
Father John was a filthy man
But he loved his God
Sitting by his window late last night he sang a song
About the ways he put them wicked ones away
And on the other side of the mountains where they lay
And on the other side of the mountains where they'll stay
The other side of the mountain's where they lay
Dead South Chords
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Dead South Chords
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