1) Piedmont blues guitarist an… Read Full Bio ↴At least two artists share this name:
1) Piedmont blues guitarist and gravedigger of Rappahannock County, VA, USA. (1924-2002)
2) UK-based Magnatune artist? (Additional info needed.)
John Henry
John Jackson Lyrics
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It won't change anything anyhow
Just hold me while the shadows bring us near
I know you're not in love with me
I'm not askin' you to be
And there's no use pretending why we're here
You don't need to try and fool me
You don't need to say you love me
I've been around enough to know
Wait, don't tell a lie
Cause I just might believe it tonight
And I know you're only tryin' to ease your mind
But don't worry it's all right
I don't care if it's wrong or it's right
Just hold me close and love me one more time
You don't need to try and fool me
You don't need to lead me on
You don't need to say you love me
I've been around enough to know
You don't need to say you love me
I've been around enough to know
The lyrics of John Jackson's "John Henry" tell a story of human emotion and relationships. The song begins with a suggestion to stop talking as it won't change anything, and instead to allow the shadows to bring the two people closer together. The singer acknowledges that the other person is not in love, but rather than pretending or fooling each other, they should simply hold each other and enjoy their time together. The second verse further emphasizes the idea of not lying, even though the singer knows the other person is only trying to ease their mind. The lyrics illustrate a sort of bittersweet acceptance of the fact that the relationship may not be ideal, but there is still a desire for one more moment of connection.
The song's melody and guitar accompaniment also reflect the emotions of the lyrics, with a slow and gentle feel that creates a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. Overall, the lyrics of "John Henry" express a universal theme of longing and acceptance, and their simplicity and directness make them relatable to anyone who has experienced the complexities of human relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
Hush, don't talk now
Please be quiet and don't speak at the moment
It won't change anything anyhow
Speaking won't change the current situation
Just hold me while the shadows bring us near
Please comfort me as darkness approaches
I know you're not in love with me
I am aware that you do not have romantic feelings towards me
I'm not askin' you to be
I am not requesting that you develop romantic feelings towards me
And there's no use pretending why we're here
It is pointless to act as if we are here for any other reason than to find comfort in each other
Wait, don't tell a lie
Please do not tell an untruth
Cause I just might believe it tonight
I am vulnerable and may be inclined to believe any lies you tell me
And I know you're only tryin' to ease your mind
I understand that you are attempting to alleviate any negative feelings you may have
But don't worry it's all right
You need not be concerned as everything will be fine
I don't care if it's wrong or it's right
The morality of the situation is irrelevant to me
Just hold me close and love me one more time
Please embrace me and show me affection once more
You don't need to try and fool me
Please do not attempt to deceive me
You don't need to lead me on
Please do not give me false hope
You don't need to say you love me
There is no need for you to express love towards me
I've been around enough to know
I am experienced enough to understand the situation
You don't need to say you love me
There is no need for you to express love towards me
I've been around enough to know
I am experienced enough to understand the situation
Contributed by Sadie R. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Richard Lehmann
Yeeeehaw