John Mellencamp's song "Death Letter" is actually a cover of the traditional blues song originally recorded by Son House. The song tells the story of a man who receives a letter informing him that the woman he loves has died. The lyrics depict his immediate reaction upon receiving the news, his journey to see her body on the "coolin' board", and his emotional turmoil throughout the process. The protagonist grabs his suitcase and heads down the road, eventually arriving at the burial site where he sees thousands of people gathered around. It is at this moment that he realizes the depth of his love for the deceased woman. The song explores themes of love, loss, and the harsh reality of mortality. As the lyrics progress, the man walks away from her grave, bidding her farewell until judgment day. He expresses the pain of not having anyone to turn to and the difficulty of loving someone who doesn't love him in return. The song ends with the protagonist waking up in the morning, feeling the absence of his lover and searching for solace in her absence. Overall, "Death Letter" captures the raw emotions of grief, longing, and the introspective journey one goes through when faced with the death of a loved one. Mellencamp's cover remains faithful to the traditional blues style, emphasizing the haunting and somber atmosphere of the narrative.
