"Rock, Salt And Nails" is a song performed by Waylon Jennings, but it was originally written and recorded by Utah Phillips. The lyrics depict a tale of heartbreak and betrayal. The song takes place by the banks of a river, where the willow trees grow cold. The narrator reflects on the lies he heard from a woman while he was there. He is haunted by her deceitful words, even though they were written in vain. The river and its surroundings serve as a backdrop to illustrate the emotional turmoil and deception in the story. The narrator is depicted as someone who is deeply affected by the loss he has experienced. He spends his nights alone, weeping and unable to sleep. This emphasizes the pain and loneliness he feels without the presence or love of the woman who betrayed him. The song also includes vivid imagery. The mention of wild birds warbling and a strange-sounding song suggests the confusion and disarray caused by the woman's lies. In the second half of the song, the lyrics take a metaphorical turn. The narrator contemplates the ways he would confront or seek revenge on the women who have hurt him. The phrase "If the ladies were blackbirds and the ladies were fishes" suggests that he would endure uncomfortable conditions, represented by the cold rainy weather, just to be around them. However, the following lines, "If the ladies were squirrels with a big bushy tail, I'd fill up my shotgun with a rock salt and nails" indicate a desire to harm or retaliate against those who have wronged him. Overall, "Rock, Salt And Nails" is a song that reflects on heartbreak, betrayal, and the pain caused by deceitful actions. It portrays the emotional turmoil and longing for revenge that can arise from such experiences.
