Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “Whiskey in the Jar – 2012 Remaster” by The Dubliners
The traditional Irish folk song “Whiskey in the Jar – 2012 Remaster” by The Dubliners tells the story of a daring highwayman who, despite his efforts to stay ahead of the law, is eventually apprehended and sentenced to hang.
The song begins with the highwayman’s story, and his exploits against other travelers, reveling in the thrill and excitement of robbing on the open road. He roamed through the mountains, stole from rich travelers, and abandoned any compassion for those unfortunate enough to cross his path. “I took all of their gold and I put it in my bag,” he proclaims.
As time goes on, the highwayman begins to feel the pressure of possible capture. As the lawman’s come calling, the highwayman is left with no choice but to surrender and face the consequences for his actions. “As I was a going over the Falken’s jumps, two or three shots fired off and away I did run,” expresses the outlaw in defeated surrender.
As he awaits his punishment, he recalls his life of crime with an acceptance he is now powerless to change his situation: “Now I knew that my intensions were bad, but I never thought that the rope would be had.”
The narrator reflects on the broader moral implications of his choices, and the destruction they can cause. He pleads for forgiveness from the people he wronged, wishing he could turn back time and do things differently.
Ultimately, this story of a highwayman serves as a warning of the consequences of reckless behavior. The Dubliners’ rendition of this traditional folk song is as haunting as its moral. The song serves as a reminder of life’s preciousness and the need to live responsibly.