Early Every Morn

Song Meaning

The narrator opens by observing a universal human drive: everyone craves something specific. They note that material desires, like clothes and money for the poor or gold for the rich, are common pursuits. However, the narrator immediately pivots, declaring their own singular craving is for love that truly nourishes their spirit. This sets up a contrast between superficial wants and a deeper emotional need. The core of the song lies in this intense, almost primal need for affection. The narrator's desire is not for fleeting pleasure but for a profound connection, expressed through the repeated phrase "early every morn." This isn't just about physical intimacy; it's about a consistent, daily reassurance of love and belonging, a feeling that starts from the head and moves all the way down to the toes. The lyrics employ vivid, folksy imagery to describe the impact of this love. The comparison of kisses to a "master" and their clinging nature to a "mustard plaster" is striking. While a mustard plaster might sound unpleasant today, historically it was a strong, persistent remedy, suggesting a love that is powerful, deeply embedded, and perhaps even a little overwhelming in its intensity. The narrator embraces this, stating they crave this kind of love even if it lasts until their death. This unwavering devotion to a specific, deeply felt need is what makes the song resonate. It’s a raw, honest expression of a desire for a love that is both constant and profoundly impactful. The simple, repetitive structure and the earnest tone amplify the narrator's singular focus, making their craving feel both intensely personal and universally understood as a fundamental human longing for connection.