“Sam Stone” by John Prine

John Prine has dedicated most of his life to creating and sharing emotional and narrative-driven music. He is acclaimed as a songwriter and his versatility in subject matter ranges from immensely funny, to heart-wrenchingly sad. NPR has described him as having “a drawled manner of phrasing that cuts any possible pretense in his impeccably metered wordplay,” and this is clearly evident in “Sam Stone.”

Photo Credit: alcoholanddrugabuse.com

The memorial song “Sam Stone” introduces us to a man just returned from war and the difficulties he faces when trying to integrate back into life at home. In an interview, Prine explains that the character of Sam is built around three or four people he knew from the army. We learn in just the first few lines that Sam brings a crippling addiction back with him, using substances to help deal with PTSD and other after-effects of fighting. Prine sings, “And the time that he served had shattered all his nerves and left a little shrapnel in his knee. But the morphine eased the pain and the grass grew round his brain and gave him all the confidence he lacked.”

As time passes, Sam’s addiction continues to grow and greatly affects his family. He starts stealing to support his habit, “while the kids [run] around wearin’ other peoples’ clothes.” Sam basically loses any will to live and addiction takes him over, ending his life with an overdose. This song is heartbreaking, but, tragically, many people and many families can relate to its story. It addresses a very difficult reality and its honesty is a source of comfort for many. It serves as a memorial song and a life lesson.

Sam Stone was alone

When he popped his last balloon

Climbing walls while sitting in a chair

Well, he played his last request

While the room smelled just like death

With an overdose hovering in the air

But life had lost its fun

And there was nothing to be done

But trade his house that he bought on the G.I. Bill

For a flag-draped casket on a local heroes’ hill

Related Links:

• ‘Sam Stone’ Lyrics
• NPR on John Prine’s ‘Great Society Conflict Veteran’s Blues’
• “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan