David Allan Coe – Piece of Wood and Steel

About the song

“Piece of Wood and Steel” by David Allan Coe is a poignant country ballad that delves deep into themes of loneliness, resilience, and the simple pleasures of life. Released in 1975, this song has become a cornerstone in the country music canon, resonating with listeners who appreciate raw, heartfelt storytelling.

A Simple Man’s Complex World Coe, with his distinctive raspy vocals, paints a vivid picture of a solitary figure who finds solace and companionship in his guitar. The lyrics, filled with imagery of the open road and the hardships of life, evoke a sense of rugged individualism. The recurring image of a “piece of wood and steel” symbolizes the guitar as a constant companion, a source of comfort, and a way to connect with others.

Themes of Loneliness and Resilience At its core, “Piece of Wood and Steel” is a song about loneliness and the human desire for connection. The narrator, a weary traveler, finds himself isolated from the world. Yet, through his music, he is able to express his emotions and find a sense of belonging. The song’s repetitive chorus emphasizes the idea that the guitar is all he needs to carry on: “All I need to carry on / Is this piece of wood and steel.”

A Country Classic The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, the lyrics are relatable and authentic, capturing the experiences of many who have faced challenges in life. Second, the melody is catchy and memorable, making it easy for listeners to connect with the song on an emotional level. Finally, Coe’s powerful vocals bring the lyrics to life, imbuing them with a sense of raw emotion.

A Symbol of Country Music “Piece of Wood and Steel” has become a symbol of country music’s ability to tell authentic stories about the lives of ordinary people. The song’s themes of loneliness, resilience, and the power of music have resonated with generations of listeners. It is a testament to Coe’s songwriting abilities and his place in the country music pantheon.

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Lyrics

I can feel your arms around me like it was yesterday
I can feel your breathing next to me and hear your laughter gay
You tried to tell me what was right and I told you what was real
All I ever live for now is this piece of wood and steel

In a world that’s full of trouble a world that’s full of pain
Lord many fall beside the road and they never rise again
Many more are bending low or broken at the wheel
All I need to carry on is this piece of wood and steel

I was born my mother’s only son she loves me all she can
But there isn’t much to say to her since I became a man
And I often met the devil but I never made a deal
I just thank the Lord for hands to play this piece of wood and steel

Its face is scarred and beaten like the ragged clothes I wear
Like the body that God gave me I might give it better care
But I play it for the ladies and I play it for a meal
I play the strings just to hear ’em ring of this piece of wood and steel

I’m growing tired of searching now there’s something much I crave
Give or take a little time and you can write it on my grave
There’s nothing more I care to own nothing left to feel
All I ever wanted was this piece of wood and steel

I can feel your arms around me like it was yesterday
I can feel your breathing next to me and hear your laughter gay
You tried to tell me what was right and I told you what was real
All I ever live for now is this piece of wood and steel
In a world that’s full of trouble a world that’s full of pain
Lord many fall beside the road and they never rise again
Many more are bending low or broken at the wheel
All I need to carry on is this piece of wood and steel

I was born my mother’s only son she loves me all she can
But there isn’t much to say to her since I became a man
And I often met the devil but I never made a deal
I just thank the Lord for hands to play this piece of wood and steel
(I’ll be playing this guitar till the day I die)