"Soul of a Man" is a song written by Blind Willie Johnson in the early 20th century, but popularized by various artists including Eric Burdon. The song delves into the existential and philosophical question of what constitutes the essence of a human being. The lyrics speak of the singer's desire for someone to provide an answer to the question of what the soul of a man truly is. They express the frustration of traveling to different places, seeking answers from various sources, yet not finding a satisfactory response. The mention of doctors and lawyers discussing the nature of man suggests that society's definition of a person is often limited to their intellect or cognitive abilities. The lyrics also mention reading the Bible and attempting to understand its teachings. However, the singer implies that their comprehension is limited, perceiving it as nothing but a "burning light," hinting at a lack of clarity or certainty in religious interpretations. Ultimately, the song's central theme revolves around the longing for knowledge and understanding of the deeper essence of humanity. It suggests that there may not be a definitive answer to the question, leaving the listener to ponder and interpret the meaning of the soul for themselves.
