Included on Spirit Trail .. 1998.
Features (Part 1): Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals, organ, Wurlitzer); John Molo (drums); J.V. Collier (bass); Debbie Henry (backing vocals).
(Part 2): Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals, organ); Matt Chamberlain (drums); John Pierce (bass); Kyle Davis (backing vocals); John Leventhal (guitar, mandolin)
Preacher in the Ring Part 1 meaning of the song
Theme and context
“Preacher in the Ring Part 1” explores the complex and often controversial practice of snake handling in certain Appalachian churches. This ritual is rooted in a literal interpretation of biblical scripture, particularly passages from the Book of Mark, which mention the ability to handle serpents and drink poison without harm. Bruce presents a vivid depiction of an outsider’s experience as he is introduced to this intense and dangerous form of worship.
Cultural references
The song references “a man in a reptile suit” and “copperheads,” referring to the venomous snakes used in these rituals. The imagery evokes a sense of both danger and fervent faith, with lines like “Hallelujah and praise the man” suggesting an ironic or questioning stance on the sincerity of such practices. The juxtaposition of religious fervour and the physical peril of handling snakes highlights the tension between faith and reason.
The phrase “the book of Mark couldn’t be wrong” emphasizes the unwavering belief some congregants have in scripture, despite the potential dangers. Bruce contrasts this blind faith with a sense of doubt, shown in lines like “I walked in like a Thomas in doubt,” referencing Thomas the Apostle, who famously questioned the resurrection of Christ.
“Cinder block” refers to a type of concrete block commonly used in construction, symbolizing the modest and often makeshift nature of these churches. “Hallelujah” is an expression of praise and joy, frequently used in religious contexts.
Preacher in the Ring part 2
Theme and context
“Preacher in the Ring Part 2” continues the narrative established in the first part, but with a darker and more contemplative tone. It reflects on the consequences of faith and the potential harm that can arise from extreme beliefs, particularly in the context of a child’s tragic death attributed to snake handling. This suggests a critique of blind faith and its implications, raising moral questions about responsibility and the dangers of such practices.
Cultural references
The reference to “the devil and the snake” symbolizes the struggle between faith and danger, indicating that not all outcomes of such practices are benign. The line “Maybe the book and the verse was all wrong” directly challenges the validity of the beliefs upheld by these congregations, suggesting a reevaluation of faith when faced with tragedy.
The mention of “lawmen” arriving at “the house on the hill” introduces themes of persecution and societal judgment. The phrase “it’s like the Israelites” draws a parallel between the experiences of marginalized religious groups and the struggles faced by the Israelites in seeking freedom and understanding in their faith.
The closing lines echo the sentiments from the first part, reinforcing a sense of doubt and the notion that faith, while powerful, is not a guaranteed shield against tragedy.
Conclusion
Together, “Preacher in the Ring Part 1” and “Part 2” encapsulate the complex dynamics of faith, belief, and the consequences of extreme religious practices. Through vivid imagery and cultural references, Bruce critiques the potential dangers of blind faith while exploring the profound, often perilous relationship between spirituality and human experience. The songs encourage listeners to reflect on the nuances of belief and the implications of their interpretations, making a powerful statement about faith’s role in our lives.
Your further thoughts
There’s no way I can enter into the same dialogue on some of the Spirit Trail songs as I did on my review of Scenes from the Southside. Spirit Trail offers several new concepts which I’m not so sure about. Preacher in the Ring is one example. We do have some tall tales to tell here in Wales, but nothing so far that concerns snake-handling congregations (mind you – what a good idea to start filling up some of our dwindling chapels!)
I have read on one review that it might be something to do with one congregation up in the Appalachian Mountains who took one verse in the New Testament a little too literally, and formed a sect of their own. I also note the influence of Lee Smith is acknowledged on the album cover (and on The Road Not Taken).
Carwyn Tywyn
2023 note:
Snake-handling religions were popularly reported in 2019 after photos were discovered showing the practice in the 1940s (see below). it was started by Pastor George Hensley at his church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Hensley said he was commanded by Mark 16:18 which says: “They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”
Hensley died of a snakebite in 1955.
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Preacher in the Ring part 1
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New York, NY
September 26 2009
