The song "Muskrat" by The Everly Brothers is a playful and lighthearted tune that features a series of questions posed to various animals and their whimsical responses. While the lyrics don't have a specific narrative or deep meaning, they exhibit a sense of wonder and curiosity about the unique qualities of each animal. The song starts with the lines "Muskrat, muskrat, what makes your back so slick? I've been livin' in the water all o' my life, It's wonder I ain't sick." The muskrat, being a semi-aquatic mammal, has a slick and waterproof fur coat. The lyrics playfully highlight the muskrat's ability to thrive in its watery habitat without falling sick. Similarly, the following verses feature different animals and their distinct characteristics. The groundhog is asked about its brown back, which is a result of living underground in burrows. The jaybird is asked about its ability to fly high, which it attributes to its diet of acorns. The rooster is questioned about its hard claws, acquired from scratching in the barnyard. Lastly, the tomcat is asked about its long tail, which it claims is a result of its prowling nature. Overall, the song showcases the diversity and wonder of nature's creations in a whimsical and light-hearted way. It highlights the unique attributes of different animals without delving into a deeper storyline or message. The lyrics are meant to bring joy and spark the imagination of the listener.
