The song "Evil" by Howlin' Wolf is a blues song that tells a cautionary tale about betrayal and infidelity. The lyrics depict a man who is away from home, feeling restless and suspicious that something is amiss in his relationship. He warns his brother, or anyone in a similar situation, to be vigilant and protect their happiness. The opening lines convey a sense of unease and restlessness, as the protagonist finds it difficult to sleep and senses that something is wrong. He advises the listener to pay attention to their intuition when things don't feel right in their home. The mention of a "mule" kicking in the protagonist's stall symbolizes another person intruding into their relationship or causing trouble. This metaphor suggests that someone else is involved with the protagonist's partner, causing a sense of jealousy and insecurity. The repetition of the line "That's evil, evil is goin' on wrong" emphasizes the nefarious nature of the situation, implying that someone is intentionally doing something dishonest or hurtful. Furthermore, the lyrics offer practical advice on how to confront the infidelity. The protagonist tells the listener to call their partner and observe their behavior. If the partner answers slowly or seems distant, the protagonist encourages the listener to take immediate action, even if it means leaving home and catching the first available train. The final stanza suggests that the protagonist is ready to confront the person involved in the affair. He advises the listener to approach their home discreetly, knocking on the front door to distract the suspected cheater, and then quickly circling to the back to catch them in the act. Overall, "Evil" explores the themes of betrayal, suspicion, and the need to protect one's happiness. Howlin' Wolf uses his powerful vocals and evocative lyrics to convey the emotional turmoil and urgency of the situation, making it a classic blues cautionary tale.
