The Old Folks At Home
Mills Brother Lyrics

The lyrics of "The Old Folks At Home" by the Mills Brothers are a nostalgic reflection on the yearning for home, specifically the Swanee River and the old plantation where the singer's old folks reside. The Swanee River, located in the southern United States, is used as a metaphorical symbol of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time and a sense of belonging. The singer expresses their heartfelt desire to be reunited with their loved ones back home and reminisces about the old plantation and the comfort it provided. The use of the term "darkies" reflects the racist language prevalent at the time when the song was written and should be acknowledged as such.

The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing, with the repetition of phrases emphasizing the intensity of the feeling. The singer expresses how they are still "a-longin'" for the old plantation and the old folks at home, suggesting a persistent and profound yearning. The refrain "All up and down the whole creation, sadly I roam" further emphasizes the feeling of displacement and being far away from where the singer truly belongs.

Overall, "The Old Folks At Home" explores themes of homesickness, nostalgia, and the longing for a sense of belonging and connection with one's roots. It captures the sentiment of many people who have had to leave their hometowns or loved ones behind, reflecting a universal longing for home and the comfort of familiar surroundings.