"Big Harlan Taylor" is a song recorded by American country music artist George Jones. The lyrics depict the complexity of relationships and the desires of a woman that can sometimes lead to heartbreak. The story begins with the narrator describing the ways of the world and the enigmatic desires of women. He acknowledges that it would take many years to fully understand them. The narrator then introduces his former sweetheart, the most beautiful woman he has ever known. However, he also mentions his friend, a man named Harlan Taylor, who is wealthy and has a fancy car. Inevitably, the woman falls for Harlan's charms, despite the narrator's efforts to win her over. The narrator becomes distraught and loses all hope for the future. He even contemplates taking his own life, but he realizes it wouldn't solve anything. In a twist of fate, the narrator decides to seek revenge on Harlan. However, as he reflects on the situation, he begins to question the meaning of it all. He realizes that if material possessions like a shiny car are what the woman desires, then she can have both the car and Harlan. Overall, the song explores themes of lost love, jealousy, and the realization that revenge and material possessions may not bring true happiness. It highlights the complexities of relationships and the often unpredictable nature of human desires.
