“Dead Skunk In The Middle Of The Road” is a novelty song that, despite its rather unappetizing subject matter, has become a cult classic. Penned and performed by Loudon Wainwright III, this quirky tune offers a humorous take on an unfortunate encounter with a deceased skunk on a highway. Let’s dive into the lyrics and explore why this song continues to resonate with listeners.
The Unforgettable Lyrics of “Dead Skunk”
The song’s charm lies in its simple, repetitive, and undeniably catchy lyrics. It paints a vivid, albeit smelly, picture that’s hard to forget. Here are the complete lyrics to “Dead Skunk In The Middle Of The Road”:
Crossin' the highway late last night
He shoulda looked left and he shoulda looked right
He didn't see the station wagon car
The skunk got squashed and there you are!
You got yer
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
You got yer dead skunk in the middle of the road
Stinkin' to high Heaven!
Take a whiff on me, that ain't no rose!
Roll up yer window and hold yer nose
You don't have to look and you don't have to see
'Cause you can feel it in your olfactory
You got yer
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
You got yer dead skunk in the middle of the road
Stinkin' to high Heaven!
Yeah you got yer dead cat and you got yer dead dog
On a moonlight night you got yer dead toad frog
Got yer dead rabbit and yer dead raccoon
The blood and the guts they're gonna make you swoon!
You got yer
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
You got yer dead skunk in the middle of the road
Stinkin' to high Heaven!
C'mon stink!
You got it!
It's dead, it's in the middle
Dead skunk in the middle!
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Stinkin' to high heaven!
All over the road, technicolor man!
Oh, you got pollution
It's dead, it's in the middle
And it's stinkin' to high, high HeavenWhy “Dead Skunk” Sticks With You
The song’s humor is derived from several elements:
- Relatability: Encountering roadkill, unfortunately, is a common experience for many drivers. The song taps into this shared, if unpleasant, reality.
- Simple Language: The lyrics are straightforward and easy to understand, contributing to the song’s singalong quality.
- Repetition: The chorus is incredibly repetitive, drilling the song title and the central image into the listener’s mind.
- Exaggeration: The phrase “Stinkin’ to high Heaven!” is a humorous hyperbole that amplifies the unpleasantness of the skunk’s odor.
- Novelty Factor: Singing about a dead skunk is inherently unusual and unexpected, making the song memorable and funny.
Loudon Wainwright III: The Artist Behind the Stink
Loudon Wainwright III, known for his quirky and often humorous songwriting, is the creative force behind “Dead Skunk In The Middle Of The Road.” Released in 1972, the song became one of his most recognizable tunes. While Wainwright’s discography is filled with more introspective and serious songs, “Dead Skunk” showcases his lighter side and his ability to find humor in the mundane and slightly macabre aspects of life.
“Dead Skunk In The Middle Of The Road” is more than just a song about roadkill; it’s a testament to the power of simple, humorous songwriting. Its catchy tune and unforgettable lyrics ensure that the image – and the smell – of that unfortunate skunk will continue to linger in the cultural consciousness for years to come.
