Goodnight Irene
Ernest Tubb (The Texas Troubadour) Lyrics

The song "Goodnight Irene" by Ernest Tubb (The Texas Troubadour) is a classic folk song that expresses the emotions of a man who has recently been separated from his wife. The lyrics are poetic and melancholic, with a touch of hope as the singer thinks of seeing his wife again in his dreams. The song is sometimes interpreted as a reflection of the tough times during the Great Depression and the struggles that people faced in their personal lives.

The first verse talks about saying goodnight to Irene, perhaps a symbol of the man's wife. The repetition of "goodnight" shows that he is resigned to the separation but still wishes her well. The second verse reveals that the man got married recently, but his happiness was short-lived as he and his wife have now parted ways. This verse adds a layer of longing to the song as he seeks to take his mind off the separation by taking a walk in town. The third verse talks about the man's fluctuating moods, suggesting that he is struggling with depression or mental health issues. He talks about living in the country or town, which could represent the opposing forces that make it difficult for him to find peace. The final line about drowning in the river is particularly haunting and suggests that the man is contemplating self-harm.