"Playing Possum" is a country song by George Jones released in 1977. The term "playing possum" refers to a defensive behavior displayed by possums, where they appear to be dead or unconscious in order to deceive their predators. In the context of the song, "playing possum" metaphorically represents the narrator's decision to play dumb and pretend not to know about their partner's infidelity. The song tells the story of a person who discovers that their partner has been cheating on them. Despite being aware of the infidelity, the narrator decides to stay silent and observe their partner's actions from a distance. They climb up a tree outside their partner's house and witness them engaging in questionable behavior. Instead of confronting their partner or immediately ending the relationship, the narrator chooses to continue playing ignorant and "playing possum" to see how things unfold. The lyrics convey the narrator's deep and unconditional love for their partner, despite the betrayal. They express a willingness to overlook the infidelity and continue loving their partner, hoping that things will change. Despite knowing that their partner's actions are wrong, the narrator hangs on to the relationship, hoping that their love will overcome the obstacles they face. Overall, "Playing Possum" is a song about a person who chooses to remain in a relationship despite the knowledge of their partner's infidelity, emphasizing the complexity of love and the difficulties of letting go.
