About the song
Tom T. Hall, a name synonymous with country music storytelling, crafted a timeless masterpiece in “Old Dogs Children & Watermelon Wine.” This poignant ballad, released in 1970, delves into the simple pleasures and bittersweet moments of life, painting a vivid picture of rural Americana.
Hall’s narrative unfolds with a gentle, nostalgic tone, inviting listeners into a world of cherished memories. The song’s title itself evokes a sense of idyllic summers spent in the company of loved ones. “Old dogs,” a metaphor for the enduring companionship of loyal friends, symbolize the passage of time and the importance of preserving connections. “Children,” a reminder of innocence and growth, represent the cyclical nature of life and the hope for the future. “Watermelon wine,” a symbol of sweet indulgence and carefree enjoyment, embodies the simple pleasures that make life worth living.
Hall’s lyrical prowess shines through in his ability to capture the essence of human experience in a few well-chosen words. The song’s chorus, with its haunting melody and evocative imagery, serves as a poignant reflection on life’s fleeting moments:
“Old dogs, children, and watermelon wine
Summer days and summer nights
Gone too soon, but still mine”
The song’s instrumentation is equally evocative, featuring Hall’s distinctive guitar playing and a subtle backing band that complements the lyrical themes. The overall mood is one of bittersweet nostalgia, tinged with a sense of peace and acceptance.
“Old Dogs Children & Watermelon Wine” remains a beloved classic, resonating with audiences of all ages. Its timeless message of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection continues to touch hearts and inspire reflection.
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Lyrics
“How old do you think I am?”, he said
I said, “Well, I didn’t know”
He said, “I turned 65 about 11 months ago”
I was sittin’ in Miami pourin’ blended whiskey down
When this old gray Black gentleman was cleanin’ up the lounge
There wasn’t anyone around ‘cept this old man and me
The guy who ran the bar was watchin’ “Ironsides” on TV
Uninvited, he sat down and opened up his mind
On old dogs and children, and watermelon wine
“Ever had a drink of watermelon wine?”, he asked
He told me all about it, though I didn’t answer back
“Ain’t but three things in this world that’s worth a solitary dime
But old dogs and children, and watermelon wine”
He said, “Women think about they-selves, when menfolk ain’t around
And friends are hard to find when they discover that you’re down”
He said, “I tried it all when I was young and in my natural prime
Now it’s old dogs and children and watermelon wine”
“Old dogs care about you even when you make mistakes
God bless little children while they’re still too young to hate”
When he moved away, I found my pen and copied down that line
‘Bout old dogs and children, and watermelon wine
I had to catch a plane up to Atlanta that next day
As I left for my room, I saw him pickin’ up my change
That night I dreamed in peaceful sleep of shady summertime
Of old dogs and children and watermelon wine