The song "Been All Around This World" is a traditional folk song that has been performed by many artists, including The Grateful Dead. The lyrics tell the story of a traveler who has been on a journey, experiencing the highs and lows of life. The protagonist sings about standing on the Blue Ridge mountain, carrying a rifle and a six-shooter. They call out to someone named Lulu, and talk about being ready to face whatever comes their way with their trusty .44. The song also touches on themes of mortality, with the protagonist seemingly resigned to their fate, expressing a willingness to face death. The instrumental breaks in the song allow for reflection and contemplation, adding to the overall mood of the song. The repetition of the phrase "Lord, I've been all around this world" emphasizes the idea of having experienced a lot in life and coming to terms with it. Overall, the song captures the spirit of a wanderer or a cowboy, reflecting on their experiences and the inevitability of mortality. The Grateful Dead's live performance at the Warfield Theatre in San Francisco, October 14, 1980, adds a raw and emotive quality to the song, showcasing the band's ability to breathe new life into traditional folk tunes.
