Big Blue Ball Of War
Nanci Griffith · Hearts In Mind [2002]
It went from Belgium on through Ireland
The Congo, then back home
This big blue ball of war spun on it's own
Spinning history in lines of blood
When many souls fell off
And we all ride on, this big blue ball of war
Souls with tickets through the veil, we all ride on
And we all ride on, this big blue ball of war
We choose to spin around and ride
This big blue ball of war
Almost a century the blood has flowed
We've killed our men of peace around this ball
And refused to hear their ghosts
We spend our destinies in deeds of hate
Humanity upon this ball
Is just a bloody fall from grace
And we all ride on
(We all ride)
This big blue ball of war
Souls with tickets through the veil
We all ride on, and we all ride on
(We all ride)
This big blue ball of war
We choose to spin around and ride
This big blue ball of war
A reformation just might save us all
A voice of harmony and open heart
Where the women teach the song
These men of evil deed can be proven wrong
If we join hand to hand with Abraham
So not a soul falls off
And we'll all ride on
(We all ride)
This big blue ball of war
Souls with tickets through the veil
We'll all ride on, and we'll all ride on
(We all ride)
This big blue ball of war
We'll choose to spin around and ride
This big blue ball of war
We'll choose to spin around and ride
This big blue ball of war
Big Blue Ball Of War
Nanci Griffith's 'Big Blue Ball Of War' stands as a poignant song in her expansive discography, showcasing her signature blend of folk storytelling and introspective lyricism. Recorded for the 2002 album Hearts In Mind, the track reflects Griffith's enduring ability to weave personal observation with broader social commentary. Throughout her career, she has maintained a distinct voice within the American folk and country traditions, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition with remarkable clarity. This recording captures her mature artistry, balancing melodic warmth with a grounded, narrative approach that has defined her work for decades. The song remains a testament to her skill as a songwriter and interpreter, offering listeners a moment of reflection on the complexities of life and connection.