Song meaning of And It Stoned Me by Rome & Duddy

"And It Stoned Me" by Van Morrison is a nostalgic and whimsical song that captures the innocence and joy of childhood experiences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two friends, the narrator and Billy, standing in the rain at a county fair with fishing poles and tackle on their backs. Despite getting wet, they find solace in the moment, as expressed in the lines, "We just stood there gettin' wet / With our backs against the fence." The rain becomes a metaphorical symbol of life's unexpected challenges, but rather than dampening their spirits, it brings them a sense of wonder and delight.

The phrase "And it stoned me" is repeated throughout the song, serving as a central motif. Here, the word "stoned" takes on a double meaning. On one hand, it can be interpreted as being under the influence of marijuana, as suggested by the line, "You know it stoned me just like some good home grown." However, the deeper meaning lies in the idea that the experiences and moments shared with Billy are so profound and transformative that they have a similar effect to being stoned. It's a metaphor for the overwhelming sense of euphoria and bliss that can be found in simple pleasures and connections.

As the song progresses, the narrator and Billy encounter an old man living alone in his own little home. He offers them a joint, and they share a moment of camaraderie and connection. The lyrics state, "He just rolled one up / One for me and you / And said 'you can smell it from afar'." This interaction further emphasizes the theme of finding joy and unity in unexpected places and through shared experiences.

The song concludes with the rain letting up and the sun coming out, symbolizing a shift in the narrative. The narrator and Billy hitch a ride in a pickup truck, and as they continue their journey, they smoke another joint. This final verse suggests that the experiences they've had, both the rain-soaked moments and the shared joint, have brought them a sense of liberation and freedom. The repetition of "Stoned me" at the end reinforces the idea that these experiences have left an indelible mark on the narrator's soul.

In summary, "And It Stoned Me" is a song that celebrates the beauty and transformative power of simple moments and connections. It reminds us to find joy in unexpected places and to appreciate the magic that can be found in the ordinary. Through its nostalgic and poetic lyrics, the song captures the essence of childhood innocence and the profound impact that certain experiences can have on our lives.