"32-20 Blues" is a song by Peter Green Splinter Group, a blues band led by British guitarist Peter Green. The song is a cover of a classic blues standard originally written and recorded by blues legend Robert Johnson in 1936. The lyrics depict a troubled relationship where the narrator's lover is unfaithful and unreliable. The narrator sends for his lover, but she doesn't come, and even doctors can't help her bad behavior. The mention of Hot Springs and Wisconsin refers to popular tourist destinations known for their healing mineral waters, implying that even the supposed healing powers of these places won't fix the problems in their relationship. The protagonist, feeling betrayed and frustrated with his lover's actions, contemplates using his 32-20 pistol to deal with the situation. He believes her .38 special gun is too light, suggesting that he has stronger feelings and intentions compared to her. Throughout the song, the narrator expresses his anger and disappointment with his lover's behavior, emphasizing that she didn't come home until morning, with tangled hair and incoherent speech. The mention of a gatling gun further illustrates his anger and readiness to confront her. The song's title, "32-20 Blues," refers to a specific type of firearm called a .32-20 Winchester cartridge, which was commonly used in the early 20th century. It highlights the intensity of emotions and potential for violence in the narrator's situation. In summary, "32-20 Blues" tells the story of a troubled relationship, with the narrator feeling betrayed and contemplating taking drastic measures to deal with his unfaithful lover's actions.
