Paul Kelly's How To Make Gravy Lyrics

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Post on Dec 21, 2024

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Deconstructing Paul Kelly's "How To Make Gravy": A Song About Family, Loss, and the Simple Things

Paul Kelly's "How To Make Gravy" isn't just a song; it's a poignant reflection on family, loss, and the enduring power of simple traditions. Released in 1996 on his album of the same name, the song's enduring popularity stems from its relatable themes and Kelly's masterful storytelling. This article will delve into the lyrics, exploring their meaning and the techniques that make this song such a powerful and enduring piece of Australian musical history.

Understanding the Narrative: More Than Just a Recipe

The song ostensibly details the process of making gravy, a seemingly mundane task. However, the act of making gravy becomes a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life, memory, and the bonds of family. Each ingredient and step represents a facet of the speaker's life and relationship with his loved ones.

The Ingredients as Metaphors:

• The flour: Could symbolize the basic building blocks of life, the foundational elements of family and tradition.
• The fat: Represents the richness and complexity of life's experiences, both good and bad. The "dripping" specifically suggests the remnants of a roast, a traditional family meal.
• The water: Perhaps represents the challenges and hardships faced, the things that need to be navigated carefully.
• The love: This is the crucial ingredient, the binding agent that holds everything together and gives the gravy (and life) its flavour. It's the invisible ingredient that makes all the difference.

The Process as a Journey:

The careful and deliberate steps of making gravy mirror the speaker's careful consideration of his past, his memories, and his relationships. The process is not rushed; it's a mindful act of remembering and cherishing.

Exploring the Emotional Core: Loss and Remembrance

The song is steeped in a palpable sense of nostalgia and loss. The repeated refrain, "How to make gravy," isn't just a question; it's a plea for connection, a way to hold onto the memories of those who are no longer present. The lyrics subtly hint at the absence of loved ones, creating a bittersweet atmosphere.

The Absent Father:

The father figure is implicitly absent, yet his presence is strongly felt through the inherited recipe and the speaker's attempt to replicate his actions. This absence underscores the emotional weight of the song – the desire to connect with the past and maintain a familial connection despite the pain of loss.

The Passing of Time:

The song's lyrical structure subtly emphasizes the passage of time. The speaker reminisces about past Christmases, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the recurring significance of these family gatherings, now tinged with sadness and the acknowledgment of time's relentless march.

Musicality and Poetic Devices: Enhancing the Narrative

Kelly's lyrical skill is evident in his use of simple yet evocative language. The straightforward nature of the lyrics, coupled with the song's understated melody, makes the emotion even more powerful. The repetition of phrases, such as "How to make gravy," creates a haunting effect, underscoring the song's themes of remembrance and longing.

The Enduring Legacy: A Timeless Classic

"How To Make Gravy" transcends its simple premise to become a powerful meditation on family, loss, and the importance of tradition. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes, its relatable portrayal of human experience, and Paul Kelly's masterful songwriting. It’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners, prompting reflection on their own lives and the people who have shaped them. The simple act of making gravy becomes a potent symbol of connection, memory, and the enduring power of love.