About the song
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with heartfelt country ballads and introspective lyrics, once again proves his prowess as a storyteller with “The Best Of All Possible Worlds”. This song, released in 1970, is more than just a piece of music; it’s a poignant reflection on life’s complexities, love, loss, and the search for meaning.
The title itself is a tantalizing paradox. It hints at a world designed with perfection in mind, yet the lyrics paint a picture of a life far from idyllic. Kristofferson’s signature raspy vocals, coupled with the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar, create an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into his world.
Right from the opening lines, we’re drawn into the narrative of a man grappling with the monotony of his existence. The lyrics, “I was running through the summer rain tryin’ to catch the evenin’ train,” evoke a sense of restlessness and a yearning for something more. The image of running through the rain is both beautiful and melancholic, symbolizing the fleeting nature of life and the pursuit of happiness.
As the song progresses, Kristofferson delves deeper into themes of disillusionment and longing. The line, “I’ve enjoyed about as much of this as I can stand,” speaks to a universal feeling of being trapped in a situation one can’t escape. It’s a sentiment that many listeners, especially those who have lived through significant life changes, can relate to.
“The Best Of All Possible Worlds” is more than just a sad song; it’s a meditation on the human condition. Kristofferson’s ability to express profound emotions with simple, yet evocative language is what sets him apart. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its honesty and authenticity. It’s a reminder that even in the best of times, we all experience moments of doubt and despair.
In conclusion, “The Best Of All Possible Worlds” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Kristofferson’s ability to craft a narrative that is both personal and universal is a testament to his talent as a songwriter. This song is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates heartfelt, introspective music.
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Lyrics
I was runnin’ through the summer rain, try’n’ to catch that evenin’ train
And kill the old familiar pain weavin’ through my tangled brain
When I tipped my bottle back and smacked into a cop I didn’t see
That police man said, “Mister Cool, if you ain’t drunk, then you’re a
fool.”
I said, “If that’s against the law, then tell me why I never saw
A man locked in that jail of yours who wasn’t neither black or poor as
me?”
Well, that was when someone turned out the lights
And I wound up in jail to spend the night
And dream of all the wine and lonely girls
In this best of all possible worlds.
Well, I woke up next mornin’ feelin’ like my head was gone
And like my thick old tongue was lickin’ something sick and wrong
And I told that man I’d sell my soul for something wet and cold as that
old cell.
That kindly jailer grinned at me, all eaten up with sympathy
Then poured himself another beer and came and whispered in my ear,
“If booze was just a dime a bottle boy, you couldn’t even buy the smell”
I said, “I knew there was something I liked about this town.”
But it takes more than that to bring me down, down, down.
‘Cause there’s still a lot of wine and lonely girls
In this best of all possible worlds
Well, they finally came and told me they was a gonna set me free
And I’d be leavin’ town if I knew what was good for me
I said, “It’s nice to learn that ev’rybody’s so concerned about my
health.”
(They were obsessed with it)
I said, “I won’t be leavin’ no more quicker than I can
‘Cause I’ve enjoyed about as much of this as I can stand
And I don’t need this town of yours more than I never needed nothin’
else.”
‘Cause there’s still a lot of drinks that I ain’t drunk
And lots of pretty thoughts that I ain’t thunk
And lord there’s still so many lonely girls
In this best of all possible worlds.