Be Careful of Stones That You Throw
Hank Williams Sr. · A Proper Introduction to Hank Williams: The Final [2004]
A tongue can accuse and carry bad news
The seeds of distrust it will sow
But unless you've made no mistakes in your life
Be careful of stones that you throw.
A neighbor was passing my garden one time
She stopped and I knew right away
That it was gossip, not flowers, she had on her mind
And this is what I heard my neighbor say.
That bad girl down the street should be run from our midst
She drinks and she talks quite a lot
She knows not to speak to me or my child
My neighbor then smiled and I thought.
A car speeded by and the screaming of brakes
A sound that made my blood chill
For my neighbor's one child had been pulled from the path
And saved by a girl lying still.
The child was unhurt and my neighbor cried out
Oh, who was that brave girl so sweet
I covered the crushed broken body and said
The bad girl who lived down the street...
Be Careful of Stones That You Throw
Hank Williams Sr.'s 'Be Careful of Stones That You Throw' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery in country storytelling. Recorded during the height of his career, the track exemplifies his signature blend of acoustic guitar, harmonica, and a melancholic vocal delivery that cut through the air with emotional precision. The song explores themes of regret and the consequences of careless actions, a narrative central to Williams's body of work. Released on 'A Proper Introduction to Hank Williams: The Final,' this recording captures the raw intensity of his live performances and studio sessions alike. It remains a staple in the canon of American country music, illustrating how Williams transformed simple folk tales into enduring anthems that continue to resonate with audiences decades later.