Included on Big Swing Face (album) .. 2002.
Cartoons and Candy features: Bruce Hornsby (keyboards, vocals); J.V. Collier (bass); Michael Baker (drums).
Cartoons and Candy meaning of the song
“Cartoons and Candy” by Bruce Hornsby is a playful, surreal song that blends elements of childhood nostalgia, blues culture, and philosophical reflection. The lyrics carry a whimsical tone, yet there are deeper themes beneath the surface about identity, innocence, and the role of cultural figures in shaping personal experiences.
Childhood nostalgia and innocence
The song captures the essence of childhood through imagery of simple joys like “watching cartoons and eating little candy.” These lines suggest a carefree existence, reminiscent of a child’s world where the small pleasures in life are central. Candy and cartoons represent innocence, evoking a time when life was less complicated.
The phrase “eating gummy fleas” highlights the playful and absurd nature of childhood imagination. Children often combine unrelated elements in their fantasy worlds, and this line brings that spirit to life. The image of “chocolate chip cookie dough” reinforces this indulgent, innocent tone.
Cultural references to blues and folklore
Several lines in the song reference key figures from blues music and folklore:
W.C. Handy
Known as the “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy was an influential American musician and composer. In the song, “walking on the sidewalk with W.C. Handy” signifies a connection to the heritage of blues music, which often deals with themes of struggle, identity, and expression. It’s as if the speaker, though indulging in childlike activities, also walks in the legacy of this iconic figure, bridging childhood innocence with deeper cultural significance.
Johnny the Conqueroo
This is a reference to the “John the Conqueror” root, a symbol in African American folklore, particularly in Hoodoo. It represents power, strength, and good fortune. The “Conqueroo” or “conquer root” is associated with magic and power. This mention adds an element of mysticism to the song, suggesting that the narrator’s imagination is rich with folklore and fantasy. Trading cards with Johnny the Conqueroo blends the mystical with the mundane, reinforcing the playful and imaginative tone of the song. It also subtly connects whimsical activities to deeper themes of self-empowerment and folklore.
Dust my broom
This line refers to the classic blues song “Dust My Broom,” made famous by Robert Johnson and Elmore James. It alludes to clearing away troubles and starting anew, another connection to the blues tradition, reinforcing themes of resilience.
Surreal and philosophical imagery
Throughout the song, Bruce uses surreal and almost dream-like imagery, such as “sitting at the master’s knee” and “singing nursery rhymes of pain.” These lines introduce a contrast between the innocent, playful activities and more complex emotions or philosophical reflections.
The line “mannish child” is particularly notable, as it comes from the blues lexicon, most famously used in Muddy Waters’ song “Mannish Boy.” This phrase suggests a young boy who is grappling with feelings of manhood or adult responsibilities before he is fully ready for them. It adds a layer of introspection, indicating that, while the speaker is indulging in childlike behaviour, there’s an undercurrent of maturity and self-awareness.
Identity and desire for recognition
A recurring theme is the speaker’s desire to be admired or emulated. The line “everybody here wants to be like me” reflects a yearning for validation and recognition. The speaker revels in the admiration of the “little wannabees,” indicating a sense of pride in their identity. However, this could also be seen as a commentary on the nature of fame or influence, with the speaker aware of their status as a figure to be followed, even while engaging in childish activities.
Final thoughts
“Cartoons and Candy” blends childhood nostalgia with cultural references to blues music and folklore, creating a unique juxtaposition of innocence and deeper themes of identity and heritage. The song’s playful imagery and surreal tone allow listeners to reflect on the interplay between youthful joys and the complexities of growing up. Bruce’s use of whimsical lyrics and cultural figures evokes a sense of both timelessness and personal discovery, ultimately celebrating the blending of childhood wonder with the larger world.