Introduction
I walk the line is a song composed by Johnny Cash, released in 1956 and sold a total of 2 million copies worldwide. The lyrics of the song are harrowing and many view it to have a significant story weaved through it. In this article we will explore the history of this song, the lyrics of the song and some titbits of information that may be of import.
History
Cash when asked when and why he composed the lyrics of I walk the line replied that he was backstage from a concert in Gladewater, Texas, being newly married he viewed the lyrics he constructed as a pledge towards his first wife Vivian. The song was an international success, with the influential lyrics of I walk the line being situated on the record charts for 42 weeks.
Features
Many see the lyrics of this song as a bard of devotion and love. Cash was newly married to Vivian Liberto at the time, and the lyrics of the song can be seen as a testimonial declaration of love and devotion to her.
The lyrics of I walk the line, like many Johnny cash songs, is simplistic in nature.
Storytelling is a prominent feature of Johnny Cash lyrics, and this song is no exception.
The first verse of I walk the line has lyrics that depict Johnny Cash having to change his ways to suit his wife; I keep a close watch on this heart of mine.......Because you're mine, I walk the line. Walking the line means that he will not misbehave.
The second verses lyrics shows that even though he is away from his wife on tour he finds it easy to be true to her and walk the line; I find it very, very easy to be true/ I find myself alone when each day is through.
The third verse lyrics shows that he stays faithful by keeping her own his mind; As sure as night is dark and day is light /I keep you on my mind both day and night.
The fourth verses lyrics are on the same par with the previous, saying that for her and their love he will keep on her side; you’ve got a way to keep me on your side /you give me cause for love that I can't hide.
The last verse is the same as the first verses lyrics.
The lyrics of I walk the line are accompanied by an innovative guitar sound which was inspired by backwards playing of the guitar on a tape recorder.
Tips and comments
- Though the lyrics of this song depict love and devotion, Johnny Cash did not stay married to Vivian Liberto. He instead found love with another woman named June.
- There are two films that have been released that share the title of this song. The first was released in 1970 and stared Geogary Peck and Tuesday Weld. It has the lyrics of this song as title because Johnny Cash constructed the soundtrack of the film. The second film was released in 2005 and stars Joaquin Phoenix and Reese witherspoon as Johnny cash and June carter Cash.
