Pardon Me
The Souls Lyrics


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Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

True, true, is it true, I didn't know if she loved me
And if she tried to steal a kiss, and I said no, she'll want me
Pardon me, pardon me, pardon me

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

She walked on home, down the road, just facin' hickory hollers
She said let's go to the house and sit down in the parlor
Pardon me, pardon me, pardon me

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

She sat there while she looked at me and started speaking softly
Grabbed my hand when she said, will you marry me?
Pardon me, pardon me, pardon me

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
And this is why I'm asking, pardon me

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Pardon Me" by The Soul's delve into themes of parental love, family dynamics, and personal relationships. The singer questions the listener about their past experiences with their mother's love during their youth. The repeated refrain of "Did your mother love you, when you were very young?" reflects a longing for understanding and connection, perhaps stemming from the absence or complexity of maternal affection.


The second stanza hints at a potential romantic entanglement, as the singer references a rejected kiss and the other person's desire for them. This could symbolize unresolved feelings or unrequited love, tying back to the initial questions about parental love and its impact on forming relationships. The plea of "Pardon me" suggests a sense of guilt or unease surrounding these emotions and interactions.


The imagery of walking home through hickory hollers and sitting in a parlor evokes a nostalgic and intimate atmosphere. The listener's perspective shifts, with the question now directed towards a woman who appears to propose marriage. The vulnerability in her soft speech and the act of reaching for the singer's hand convey a mix of longing and uncertainty about the future.


Throughout the song, the refrain serves as a constant reminder of the singer's unresolved feelings and the lingering impact of early familial dynamics. The repetition of the questions about maternal love and family composition underscores the complexity of personal histories and their influence on present relationships. The repeated request for pardon suggests a need for forgiveness or understanding in navigating these emotional complexities. In essence, "Pardon Me" is a reflective and introspective exploration of love, family, and the intricate web of connections that shape our lives.


Line by Line Meaning

Did your mother love you, when you were very young?
Was your mother affectionate towards you during your early years?


And is that why you're hanging on to me?
Is that the reason you are seeking comfort from me?


Are you an only daughter with a family with no son?
Are you the sole female child in a family without male offspring?


And this is why I'm asking, pardon me
That's why I am inquiring, please forgive me


She walked on home, down the road, just facin' hickory hollers
She made her way back home, traversing the challenging terrain of hickory-covered hills


She said let's go to the house and sit down in the parlor
She suggested we go inside and relax in the formal living room


She sat there while she looked at me and started speaking softly
She gazed at me and began to speak in a gentle tone


Grabbed my hand when she said, will you marry me?
Took hold of my hand as she posed the question of marriage




Lyrics © WHIRLED MUSIC PUBLISHING
Written by: EDWARD MELANSON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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