Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf? (Bon Soir)

Song Meaning

This rendition of "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" opens with a meta-commentary, the narrator stating they'll sing a "standard" because people complain about their song choices. This immediately sets a playful, almost defiant tone. The core of the song retells the familiar fable of the three pigs, but with a distinct emphasis on the pigs' carefree attitudes. Pigs one and two are depicted as revelers, playing flutes and fiddles, prioritizing leisure over labor. Their dismissive attitude towards the wolf is captured in the line "They did not give three figs," highlighting their initial lack of concern. The central tension arises from the stark contrast between the carefree pigs and the impending threat of the wolf. While pigs one and two are "very gay" and "fond of jigs," living for the moment, pig number three is a pragmatist, declaring "Nix on tricks / I shall build my house with bricks." This division between indulgence and diligence is the narrative engine, showing how different approaches to life (and construction) lead to vastly different outcomes when faced with adversity. The repeated question, "Who's afraid of the big bad wolf?" becomes ironic as the first two pigs are clearly terrified when their flimsy homes are destroyed. The lyrics cleverly subvert the expected fear by framing the pigs' initial response as a confident, almost taunting, "Tra la la la la." This cheerful refrain, repeated throughout, underscores their perceived invincibility before the wolf's arrival. The narrator's vocalization of "Me" at the very end, after the pigs have triumphed, adds a final layer of ambiguity. Is the narrator identifying with the wolf's defeat, or is it a final, knowing wink to the audience about the true nature of fear and preparedness? Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their playful subversion of a classic tale and their subtle commentary on preparedness. The cheerful, almost nonchalant tone of the pigs, juxtaposed with the wolf's destructive power, makes the eventual triumph of the brick house all the more satisfying. The song doesn't just tell a story; it uses the familiar narrative to underscore the wisdom of foresight and hard work, all while maintaining a light, sing-song quality that belies its underlying message.