Walkin'
Otis Spann & Fleetwood Mac Lyrics

The lyrics to "Walkin'" by Otis Spann and Fleetwood Mac speak to the feelings of emptiness, loss, and despair that come from a failed relationship.

The first verse sets the tone by describing the singer's empty cupboards. The use of the word "baby" suggests that the person they were once with doesn't care about their current state. The singer acknowledges that they are living in a different way now without their partner, and it is a difficult adjustment. The line "I'm walkin' the road, but there's a long long way to go" highlights the long and challenging journey the singer has yet to face without their loved one.

The second verse further illustrates the singer's struggle. They describe their worn-out socks and trousers to symbolize their deteriorating physical and emotional state. The holes in the socks reflect the void left by their lost relationship, while the tattered trousers visually represent their overall unraveling. Again, they emphasize that they are walking the road, implying their determination to keep moving forward despite the obstacles.

In the third verse, the singer appears to be trying to cope with the news of their partner leaving. They sit at a table, presumably to gather their thoughts, but find solace in cigarettes and alcohol. This suggests that they are seeking temporary relief but are ultimately overwhelmed by their deep sadness. The repetition of "I'm walkin' the road, but there's a long long way to go" reinforces their feeling of being on a difficult and lengthy journey.

The final verse hints at the sacrifices the singer made in the relationship, such as giving their love and car to their partner. However, now that they are alone, they must keep moving and seeking refuge in the next backstreet bar. This line implies a sense of displacement and the singer's struggle to find comfort and stability. Yet, they continue to walk the road, emphasizing the ongoing journey they must embark on without their loved one.

Overall, the lyrics of "Walkin'" paint a vivid picture of heartbreak, despair, and the arduous process of healing and moving on after a failed relationship. The repeated line underscores the lingering pain and the long road ahead for the singer as they search for a sense of fulfillment and personal growth.