☝️ Key Points
- The song tells the story of a man named Pappy who produces illegal moonshine in the hills of North Carolina.
- Despite the efforts of government officials and law enforcement officers, Pappy remains undiscovered and is able to continue distilling his moonshine.
- The moonshine is described as very pleasant and refreshing, but also very strong and potent.
- The song explains why the moonshine is called 'White Lightnin'' instead of 'Mountain Dew'.
- An anecdote is told about a city dweller who tries the moonshine and quickly realizes that it is too strong for him.
Interpretation
The song 'White Lightnin'' by
George Jones tells the story of a man named Pappy who lives in the hills of North Carolina and distills his own moonshine. The lyrics describe how Pappy brews the 'White Lightnin'' and shares it with others. It is described as very pleasant and refreshing.
The text also mentions that government officials and law enforcement officers try to find Pappy and put an end to his illegal business. They are referred to as 'G-Men' (government officials) and 'T-Men' (law enforcement officers). Despite their efforts, Pappy remains undiscovered and is able to continue producing his moonshine.
It is also explained why Pappy calls his moonshine 'White Lightnin'' instead of 'Mountain Dew', as it is commonly called. The song lyrics describe how the narrator takes a sip of the 'White Lightnin'' and immediately feels its effects. His eyes widen and his face turns blue. So it seems to be a very strong and potent moonshine.
The text ends with an anecdote about a city dweller who wants to try the moonshine but quickly realizes that it is too strong for him. He falls down and groans in pain.
Overall, the song 'White Lightnin'' is about the production and effects of illegal moonshine and how Pappy keeps his secrecy. It is an entertaining and lively song that tells the story of Pappy and his 'White Lightnin''.