About the song
“Bread for the Body” by Kris Kristofferson is a profound and thought-provoking song that reflects on the complexities of life, the human condition, and societal inequalities. Released in the early 1970s, the song resonates with Kristofferson’s characteristic style, blending poignant lyrics with a gentle melody to convey a powerful message.
The song opens with a stark depiction of a working-class man who toils away for basic sustenance. The phrase “bread for the body” symbolizes the bare necessities required for survival, such as food, shelter, and physical well-being. This metaphorical bread contrasts with “song for the soul,” which represents the deeper, more spiritual needs that sustain human spirit and dignity. Kristofferson uses this juxtaposition to highlight the imbalance between physical and spiritual nourishment in a world that often prioritizes material wealth over emotional and spiritual fulfillment.
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Throughout the song, Kristofferson paints vivid pictures of individuals trapped in monotonous routines, struggling to make ends meet while grappling with the weight of their existential angst. He questions the societal structures that reduce people to mere cogs in the machinery of an industrialized world, where their worth is often measured by their productivity rather than their inherent humanity. The lyrics reflect a deep empathy for the marginalized and a critique of the systemic issues that perpetuate their suffering.
The chorus serves as a poignant reminder of the universal human longing for something more meaningful than just physical survival. Kristofferson’s soulful delivery underscores the urgency of this need, making the listener reflect on their own lives and the world around them. His use of simple yet evocative language makes the message accessible and relatable to a wide audience, inviting listeners to question their own values and priorities.
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Musically, “Bread for the Body” is a gentle, folk-influenced ballad, featuring acoustic guitar and Kristofferson’s distinctive, gravelly voice. The understated arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, emphasizing the song’s introspective nature. The simplicity of the music mirrors the starkness of the song’s themes, creating a cohesive and impactful listening experience.
“Bread for the Body” is a timeless piece that captures the essence of Kristofferson’s songwriting—blending social commentary with introspective storytelling. It challenges the listener to consider what truly sustains us as human beings, urging a reevaluation of the societal values that shape our lives.
Video
Lyrics
“Bread For The Body”
A slave to a job that meant nothing to me
With three shiny new cars and a split level home
To furnish the tomb I was dying to own
Then one day I wakened with fear in my eye
Aware of a world that was passing me by
And I knew that my savings of silver and gold
Would mean not a thing when my body was cold
[Chorus]
Because life is a song for the dying to sing
And it’s got to have feeling to mean anything
And a man can get by without silver or gold
With bread for the body and song for the soul
I’m living my life by the lesson I’ve learned
And not looking back at the bridges I’ve burned
Cause the time that we travel from cradle to grave
Was meant to be spent and not meant to be saved
And I know there are some who will say I’m a fool
But I don’t give a damn for the people that do
Cause if down in a dungeon is where they belong
Well, that’s their misfortune and none of my own
[Repeat Chorus]