"Baby Buffalo" is a song by James Taylor that was released on his 2021 album "American Standard". The song tells a story and reflects on time passing by and the changes that occur in life. The lyrics start by asking if someone is there and if they can hear the singer. It signifies a longing for connection and closeness. The mention of the morning a long time ago represents a nostalgic memory of holding onto someone and not wanting to let go. The line "Time on the river sliding on by, hard to believe, wink of an eye" refers to the fleeting nature of time. It emphasizes how quickly moments and experiences pass. The imagery of a river symbolizes the continuous flow of life. The verses then mention the absence of someone and question where they have gone. The references to "Baby Buffalo" and "Cotton Eyed Joe" are intriguing, but their specific meaning is open to interpretation. It could be a metaphorical reference to people or elements from the singer's past that have disappeared or changed. The line "Hold up, lying low, long gone come-a summertime snow" implies that whatever or whoever is missing is not easily seen or found. The mention of "summertime snow" represents something unusual or unexpected, as snow is usually associated with winter. The lyrics take a slightly different turn as they mention a doctor making her rounds and the concept of tears and clowns. This could signify the passing of time, with the doctor representing the aging process and the tears and clowns representing the different emotions and experiences one encounters along the way. The song concludes with the lines "They go on, so do you. On and on, maybe me too", suggesting that despite the changes and uncertainties in life, it keeps moving forward for everyone, including the singer. There is an acknowledgment that life continues with or without certain individuals or circumstances. Overall, "Baby Buffalo" explores the themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the uncertainty of life. The lyrics weave a story of longing, questioning, and acceptance of the inevitable changes that come with the passage of time. The song encourages reflection on personal experiences and the ongoing journey of life.
