Don't Let Us Get Sick
Madeleine Martin Lyrics

Madeleine Martin's soothing, tender voice reflects a sense of vulnerability and fragility in "Don't Let Us Get Sick." The melancholic tune of the song is a lamentation of human frailty, the fears, and anxieties that come with it. Martin pleads for protection and strength against the inevitability of old age, illness, and stupidity. The first verse emphasizes the helplessness of human existence as she implores not to let us get old and stupid but instead make us brave and play nice. The rest of the lyrics speak to the challenges of life and how one can quickly become bogged down by the troubles of daily existence.

The second verse, in particular, paints an image of the weariness of life. The singer walks to the mill, a representation of work and effort, and sees the sky on fire. This is a metaphorical description that speaks to how the world seems to be always on edge, on the verge of some catastrophic event. In the face of such an environment, it is natural to think of one's friends and the struggles they face. Doing so helps to keep the singer from dwelling on their own troubles, suggesting an inherent empathy that exists within humanity.

In summary, "Don't Let Us Get Sick" is a song about the vulnerability of human life and the fears that come with it. It is a poignant and emotional plea for protection and strength against the inevitability of old age, illness, and stupidity.