Song Details
- Album Release Date: 1995-10-11
- Album Name: Up
Song Meaning (Interpretation) of “The Jolly Butcher” by Great Big Sea
The Jolly Butcher is a spirited and jubilant song written and performed by Great Big Sea. It paints a vivid picture of an aging man, likely a butcher, who is living his life to the fullest and is determined to always stay jolly. The song depicts the title character as someone who has a great passion for his craft, as he “strikes the cleaver true” and is “slaughtering away his time.” Despite the fact that he is an older man, he still views his life’s work as essential and meaningful and chooses to enjoy it “till the end of his days.” He also loves to drink, sing, and dance, hosting nightly parties and reveling amidst the joyous atmosphere he has created. The song then provides a resounding call for people of all ages to follow in the jolly butcher’s footsteps, telling listeners to “raise your glass for the jolly butcher!” to salute the example that he has set for living life to the fullest, full of passion and joy.