The song "From Four Until Late" by Peter Green Splinter Group is a cover of a blues classic originally performed by Robert Johnson. The lyrics depict the narrator expressing his emotions, particularly his feelings of worry and despair. The line "From four until late, I was wringing my hands and cryin'" suggests that the narrator is deeply troubled during these hours. The repetition of this line emphasizes his distress. The next lines bring up the idea that the narrator's father is heading to Gulfport, a city in Mississippi. This creates a sense of geographical separation, as the narrator realizes that his father will be gone for a long journey. The lyrics suggest that this absence further contributes to the narrator's sadness. The following verses highlight the dissatisfaction and restlessness felt by the narrator and men in general. The line "A man's like a prisoner and he's never satisfied" implies that men often feel trapped and unsatisfied in their lives. The lyrics then shift to describing women as dressers, with men constantly "rambling through its drawers." This metaphor suggests that men are always seeking something new or different, incapable of being content. The expression "an apron overhaul" refers to a garment worn by women, reinforcing the theme of men's restlessness. The narrator explains that a woman, in this case, gets involved with a no-good group and ruins a good man's reputation. This implies the destructive behavior of this woman and serves as a cautionary story about the consequences of getting mixed up with the wrong crowd. The song concludes with the narrator expressing his intention to leave town and bid farewell. This indicates a desire to escape from the troubles and negative experiences. The last lines hint at the idea that upon the narrator's return, stories and gossip about his absence and adventures will circulate, adding a sense of intrigue and anticipation. In summary, "From Four Until Late" explores themes of sadness, restlessness, and the consequences of one's actions. The song paints a picture of emotional struggle and the desire for change, showcasing the blues tradition of expressing deep emotions through music.
