Meaning of Handy Man by Lord Kitchener

The Handy Man: A Symbol of Dedication and Resourcefulness

As I sit down to write about Lord Kitchener’s calypso song, "Handy Man", I am taken back to my childhood days when I would listen to this song with my grandparents. The catchy melody and witty lyrics would have me dancing and singing along in no time. But beyond the entertainment value, "Handy Man" teaches us valuable lessons about dedication, resourcefulness, and the importance of craftsmanship.

The Story Behind the Song

The song tells the story of a handyman who offers his services to a woman, promising to work at any time of the day. He describes himself as a handy man ’round the clock, emphasizing his availability and dedication to addressing the needs of his customer. But what makes this song stand out is the way Kitchener weaves a narrative that highlights the protagonist’s resourcefulness and sense of humor.

The Power of Craftsmanship

One of the most significant aspects of "Handy Man" is the way it showcases the importance of craftsmanship. The protagonist is not just a handyman, but a master of his craft. He takes pride in his work, whether it’s sweeping and cleaning, or fixing broken items. His dedication to his craft is evident in the way he justifies his decision to work at night, saying that the cool weather is conducive to working and he doesn’t need to see to eat. This emphasis on craftsmanship is a valuable lesson for anyone who wants to excel in their chosen field.

The Importance of Adaptability

Another important theme in "Handy Man" is the importance of adaptability. The protagonist is willing to work at any time of the day, and even in unexpected situations. When the madame wakes up and complains about feeling something crawling under her nightdress, Kitchener responds with a witty explanation, using wordplay to reveal that it was the broom that accidentally slipped under the coverlet. This shows that even in unexpected situations, a handyman should be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions.

My Personal Experience with the Song

As I mentioned earlier, I grew up listening to "Handy Man" with my grandparents. It was a staple in our household, and we would often sing along to it together. One of my fondest memories is of my grandfather teaching me how to play the guitar and singing this song together. The experience of singing and playing together created a sense of closeness and bonding that I will always treasure.

Conclusion

"Handy Man" by Lord Kitchener is a timeless calypso song that teaches us valuable lessons about dedication, resourcefulness, and the importance of craftsmanship. The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics make it a joy to listen to, but it’s the underlying themes that make it a song that will be remembered for generations to come. Whether you’re a handyman yourself or just someone who appreciates a good tune, "Handy Man" is a song that will have you dancing and singing along in no time.

Additional Insights

• The song’s repetition of the phrase "handy man ’round the clock" emphasizes the protagonist’s commitment to his work.
• Kitchener’s use of wordplay in the line "I hurry to finish me task" shows his ability to think creatively and come up with clever solutions.
• The song’s emphasis on the importance of craftsmanship is a valuable lesson for anyone who wants to excel in their chosen field.

Watch Top 100 Songs in 2024