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Learning the language

After yesterday's buckle shinin', another new American word for me to learn was 'bobtail'.

 

Bobtailing is when a semi-truck is traveling without an attached trailer. This can occur when a semi-truck is in the process of picking up a trailer (and has no trailer to deliver) or is returning from delivery (and has no trailer to pick up). Bobtails are a common sight on Texas highways.

 

Once again, James McMurtry's lyrics are spot on. Unfortunately if you follow the song to the end, there is a sad ending.

 

"She's been green breaking horses when she's home from the road,

Waiting on dispatch to find her a load.

She leased all but the trap, ponies can't graze a thing,

Another bobtail of coastal ought to last them 'til spring.

 

Randy says not to worry, he'll feed while she's gone.

She's got the Freightliner idling half up on his lawn.

He don't like her driving when the northers come blue

But if the horses went hungry Lord knows what she'd do"

 

jukebox # 505

James McMurtry "Jackie"

 

Here is a rather good solo live version of the same song.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP7vafBZ4zY

 

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Uploaded on January 22, 2025
Taken on December 23, 2024