Blue And Lonesome

Little Walter's 'Blue And Lonesome' is a classic blues song that encapsulates the raw emotion and simplicity of the blues genre. The lyrics convey a deep sense of sorrow and loneliness, which is a common theme in blues music. The repetition of the phrase 'I'm blue and lonesome' emphasizes the intensity of the singer's emotional state, suggesting a profound level of sadness that is almost tangible. The blues often speak to universal feelings of heartache and loss, and Little Walter's delivery of these lyrics adds to the authenticity of his experience.

The second verse of the song introduces the plea for a lost love to return, which is another hallmark of blues storytelling. The singer's heart is 'full of misery,' and he longs for the sweetness of the relationship that has slipped away. This yearning for reconciliation and the pain of unrequited love are sentiments that many listeners can relate to, making the song resonate on a personal level. The blues is not just about expressing sadness; it's also about connecting with the listener through shared experiences of love and loss.

In the final verse, the singer contemplates a dramatic and poetic end by casting himself 'down in the deep blue sea.' This metaphor for drowning in one's sorrow illustrates the depth of his despair. The imagery of the sea, with its vastness and mystery, mirrors the singer's emotional state, suggesting that his feelings are as deep and consuming as the ocean itself. The mention of 'whales and the fishes' having a 'fuss over me' adds a touch of dark humor, a common coping mechanism in blues music to deal with the weight of such heavy emotions.