Shane And Dixie
Richard Thompson · Other Songs - Richard Thompson
They wanted to be famous like you read in books
Shane had the brain and Dixie had the looks for glory
As a bank robber, Shane really hadn't got a clue
He'd end up likely at the end of a noose
Which was fine by Shane if the papers could use the story
Fame and love, fame and love
Fame and love will never die
Shane said to Dixie, we're getting nowhere
But I've a fine idea if you love me, swear
We'll be household names if we only dare, forever
Here's two bullets in my old Carbine
One is yours and the other is mine
Then we'll be happy till the end of time together
Fame and love, fame and love
Fame and love will never die
She screams, she swears
She tears her hair
Saying, Shane this time
You've lost your mind
Shane took aim with the 16-bore
And Dixie lay dying down there on the floor
Shane was shaken but his purpose was more inspired
Shane said, Lord what have I done
But this victory is only halfway won
Then he put the barrel underneath his tongue and fired
Fame and love, fame and love
Fame and love will never die
They found the bodies when the neighbors complained
Shane was all over the walls like paint
Dixie looked bad but her heart beat faint but surely
Well, they saved her life, they were just in time
And she turned her back on a life of crime
And she married the man who came to type out her story
Oh, the news of the screws most generously gave
The money helped to pay for Shane's new grave
And it looked so fine till the vandals sprayed it over
Time went by and the weeds grew high
And hid Shane's grave from the curious eye
And maybe that's why we forget those lines he told her
Fame and love, fame and love
Fame and love will never die
Shane And Dixie
Richard Thompson's 'Shane And Dixie' stands as a testament to his enduring mastery of narrative songwriting within the English folk-rock tradition. The track exemplifies Thompson's ability to weave intricate character studies into concise musical forms, a skill that has defined his extensive discography. While often associated with his collaborative work in Fairport Convention, Thompson's solo career has consistently delivered sophisticated compositions that balance acoustic intimacy with sharp lyrical observation. This recording captures his signature guitar work and storytelling precision, placing it alongside other notable songs in his catalogue that explore human relationships and social dynamics. The song remains a compelling example of his contribution to the genre, showcasing the depth and versatility that have secured his reputation as a vital voice in contemporary music.