In the song Wringing and Twisting Blues by Ma Rainey her despair and violence is laced throughout the lyrics, melody, and accompaniment. Another woman stole her man away and her grief turns to anger and a lust for revenge. The sorrowful pitch and slow rhythm reflect the hurt that she has experienced. The shape of the song builds on her wanting to get even. The lyrics portray these strong emotions,

“But if I know that woman that caused my heart to moan

I’d cook a special dinner, invite her to my home

…………………………………………….………

If she eats on my table, she will be graveyard bound

I’ll be right there to tell her, when they put her in the ground

You’re the cause of me having those wringin’ and a-twistin’ blues.’”

The melody has a distinct blue note that sums up her loss. The accompaniment has a wonderful texture with the chords and notes that in all produce a longing rhythm. This song demonstrates the relationship between men and women, but especially women and women. Her love had another woman on the side and her first reaction is not to blame her man, it is to get revenge on the woman who stole him away. It exemplifies the violence and competition between women.  The relationship between the man and woman is that he is not responsible the other woman is, allowing him to get off easy because it is only the women’s fault. This song demonstrates perfectly the anguish and hatred that this woman experienced. Ma Rainey exemplifies all the defining characteristics of the blues through this song.

Melissa Stoll