The Meaning Behind The Song: Elegant Donkey (Jackass) by Harry Belafonte

Table of Contents

The Meaning Behind The Song: Elegant Donkey (Jackass) by Harry Belafonte

The Lyrics

I was walking down the road one day
When I pass a horse and a fat donkey
I overheard the donkey say
She was a movin’ up in society

Seem she merry common law
To a donkey man but he had no class
She wanted to make a baby but
Not if the father was an ass

The ways of the world are very strange
Laws and pagan never change
The elegant donkey wanted class
That’s why they call she jack-ass
Jack-ass, Jack-ass, Jack-ass

Well it happen in the early Spring
When the circus came she went to see
Got to know an elephant
A little too intimately

Oh the elephant ask please merry me
The donkey agree oh pity she
It’s too late now to change she mind
She’s in society

Well now my friends the baby born
Half donkey, half elephant
And if you see the mother now
She’s only got embarrassment

Say de baby is elite
Not a common ass as it should be
And when it walking down the street
The tail ain’t where it ought to be

Meaning of the Song

“Elegant Donkey (Jackass)” by Harry Belafonte is a playful and satirical calypso song that explores the theme of social aspirations and the desire for acceptance. The lyrics tell the story of an ambitious donkey who seeks to improve her social standing. She is in a common-law marriage with a donkey man who lacks class, and she longs to have a baby but only if the father is not an “ass.” The phrase “ass” here is used metaphorically to refer to someone of low social status.

Throughout the song, the donkey’s pursuit of class leads her to encounter an elephant. She becomes involved with the elephant and ultimately agrees to marry him. However, the consequences of this unconventional relationship are evident when their baby is born—a hybrid mix of a donkey and an elephant. The donkey, now embarrassed by the unusual offspring, realizes that her pursuit of higher social status has come at a cost.

The song serves as a social commentary on the human tendency to judge and aspire to societal standards. Belafonte cleverly uses the metaphor of animals to depict the complexities of class and the consequences of seeking acceptance in a society where one’s background often determines their worth.

My personal interpretation of the song’s lyrics reflects the idea that we should embrace our authentic selves and not try to conform to societal expectations. It reminds me of times when I have been caught up in the pursuit of social acceptance, only to later realize that it’s more important to be true to myself and find happiness and fulfillment in my own unique way.

In a world that often values conformity over individuality, “Elegant Donkey (Jackass)” serves as a lighthearted reminder to question the ideals and standards we strive for. It encourages us to celebrate our own uniqueness and to resist the pressure to conform to societal norms.

Conclusion

“Elegant Donkey (Jackass)” by Harry Belafonte offers a humorous and thought-provoking take on the human pursuit of social acceptance. Through the story of a donkey’s quest for class and the consequences she faces, the song prompts us to reflect on the meaning of true authenticity and the importance of embracing our own uniqueness. It serves as a reminder to not let societal expectations dictate our sense of self-worth. Instead, we should celebrate our individuality and find happiness in being true to ourselves.