The song "Shed Me No Tears" by Jeannie C. Riley revolves around the theme of death and the singer's wishes for how she should be remembered and mourned after her passing. The lyrics express a desire for a non-traditional funeral or burial. The singer asks that no sad songs be sung for her and no flowers be planted at her head. Instead, she wants to be remembered through the vibrant, green grass that covers her grave, symbolizing life and growth even in death. She hopes that others will remember her even if she forgets them, emphasizing the importance of memory and the enduring impact a person can have on others. The narrator acknowledges that after death, their eyes will be blinded and their ears will no longer hear. This emphasizes the idea that grieving or mourning in traditional ways will not have any effect on them in the afterlife. They urge their loved ones to refrain from shedding tears and singing sad songs because they will not be able to perceive or experience this grief. The stone at their headstone will mark their departure and indicate that all their "seeds" have been sown, signifying that they have completed their purpose or mission in life. However, they assure their loved ones that their memory will continue to live on in silence. Overall, "Shed Me No Tears" is a request from the singer to be remembered in a positive and life-affirming way rather than through sadness and mourning. It encourages the listener to cherish memories and celebrates the legacy a person can leave behind.
