The song "Put My Little Shoes Away" by The Everly Brothers is a poignant and heart-wrenching ballad. The lyrics are a plea from a dying child to their mother, asking her to preserve their memories and keep their shoes as a remembrance. The child, who is weak and suffering, calls out to their mother, asking for her comfort and care. They request just a drop of water to soothe their burning cheek. The child knows that their time is limited and expresses the desire to leave a final request. The child asks their mother to put away their little shoes, which were gifted by Santa Claus along with other toys. These shoes hold sentimental value for the child, as they believe an angel with golden wings was also brought by Santa. By asking their mother to keep their shoes, the child hopes to preserve a tangible reminder of their existence. The child also asks their mother to pass on the message to their playmates that they will never play together again. They request that their toys be given to their friends as a parting gift. However, the child insists that their mother should keep their little shoes. The meaning of "Put My Little Shoes Away" lies in the child's awareness of their impending death and their desire to leave a lasting memory through their beloved shoes. It conveys the innocence, fragility, and acceptance of a young life coming to an end, while also highlighting the deep bond between a child and their mother.
