Ray Wylie Hubbard – “Snake Farm” Lyrics Meaning

Hubbard’s “Snake Farm” is more than just a song about a reptile house; it’s a gritty, tongue-in-cheek exploration of love, life, and the allure of the unconventional. At its core, the song tells the story of Ramona, a woman who works at a snake farm, and her relationship with the narrator. The song delves into themes of attraction to the offbeat, finding beauty in the mundane, and the deep connection between two people who share an appreciation for the less glamorous sides of life. It’s a celebration of the peculiar, suggesting that sometimes, love and fulfillment can be found in the most unexpected places.

Dive into the story of Ramona and her reptilian realm to discover the humor, heart, and hidden meanings woven into this unique song. “Snake Farm” is an intriguing piece that blends humor with an undercurrent of deeper significance.


“Snake Farm” Lyrics Meaning

Ray Wylie Hubbard opens with a description of Ramona, portraying her as a woman of unique beauty and charm, with references to iconic figures like Tempest Storm and Little Egypt. This introduction sets the stage for a story that celebrates the allure of the unconventional and the beauty found in what society often dismisses as “nasty” or unappealing.

Hubbard uses the snake farm as a metaphor for the places and situations in life that are often judged harshly or misunderstood. The chorus, with its repeated lines “Snake farm, it just sounds nasty / Snake farm, pretty much is / Snake farm, it’s a reptile house,” serves as a catchy yet poignant commentary on perception versus reality. It’s an invitation to look beyond surface-level judgments and find value and meaning in the overlooked or disparaged.

The relationship between the narrator and Ramona is central to the song’s narrative, showcasing a bond that transcends conventional attractiveness or desirability. Their connection is rooted in a shared sense of humor, a mutual appreciation for the quirks of their lives, and an unspoken understanding that beauty and love can flourish in the most unexpected places. This is further emphasized by the details of their interactions and Ramona’s unique characteristics, such as her tattoo and her taste in music, which add depth to her character and to the song’s exploration of individuality and nonconformity.

Hubbard’s lyricism shines in his ability to paint a picture of life at the snake farm with both affection and a critical eye. He doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the grim aspects of the setting but also highlights the charm and warmth found within it. This duality invites listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of what constitutes a meaningful or valuable life experience.

The Story Behind “Snake Farm”

Known for his ability to weave together humor, vivid storytelling, and a deep sense of humanity, Hubbard’s inspiration for this song came from a place of genuine curiosity and amusement. The story behind “Snake Farm” begins with Hubbard’s real-life encounter with a snake farm sign during one of his travels. This sign, which promised a unique attraction, sparked his imagination and led him to ponder the lives of those who worked in such a place.

“Snake Farm” is a celebration of finding connection and joy in places where others might only see despair or oddity. It’s a testament to the idea that love and happiness are not bound by societal norms but can be discovered in shared laughter, peculiar hobbies, or even the daily grind of a snake farm. Through Ramona and the narrator’s story, Hubbard encourages us to embrace the unconventional and find beauty in the narratives we often write off as merely “nasty.”