Up From The Well

[T.C. Elliott]

Up from the Well

I'd worked the fields for years
When the well did run dry
Though I'm thirsty for affection
Without water we'll all die

Up from the well the devil did rise
And take the woman that was my wife
Down the well he jumped again
Left me alone but with my life

I butchered the fattest calf
Slaughtered a lamb and goose
Invited over all my friends
We all really let it loose

Up from the well the devil did rise
And take the woman that was my wife
Down the well he jumped again
Left me alone but with my life

That damned ol' devil came up again
Brought back that hag of a bitch
If the devil won't have her, it's no use
To consult sorcery or a witch

Up from the Well the devil did rise
To take the woman that was my wife
Then he brought her back again
And ruined what's left of my life

© 2009 T.C. Elliott

[Frank53]

You know, I've read this several time now. I'm really intrigued. I'm not sure I understand the metaphor. I really like the images, so I'll take a shot. Either his wife goes insane, or she leaves him for another man (taken by the devil, in either case), then returns to him, but it's never the same between them. Am I anywhere in the same area code here?   

Interesting lyrics. At first you get the impression that she died, but her return is a real surprise. I like surprises. Good work.

[Satchwood]

Really cool lyrics PF !! 

I kinda get the feeling they separate (or divorce), and then he realizes it aint so bad after all - not missing the trouble she brought to him, and rather enjoying the party and freedom!  And then somehow they get re-united -ahhh- and now the flippin party's over......

[Gritter]

Love the lyrics man...they got grit!

[henwrench]

I like these lyrics alot, kinda Robert Johnson meets Tom Waits. Which can only be A Good Thing.

                                           henwrench

[Nelson]

Hey T.C Great job man. This one sound like an oldie but goodie from way back. This one would scare me death, to know that you have to come up with music that is worthy of accompanying those lyrics. But I bet you're up to it but please don't compromise. I'm thinking a gritty old slide guitar sound and a plain old foot stomp for percussion. 
It may seem like a simple little song but it's true magic. And I love the way you flip the story near the end. Genius. And funny as hell. Can't wait to hear your musical ideas for it.
Good Luck.
-Nelson