Meaning:
Loretta Lynn's quote, "Doo never actually made moonshine, but he hauled about an ocean of it," reflects the colorful and often tumultuous life of her late husband, Oliver "Doolittle" Lynn. Doolittle, affectionately known as "Doo," was a complex figure who played a significant role in Loretta Lynn's life and career. The quote captures the essence of Doo's larger-than-life persona and his involvement in the moonshine trade, as well as the impact it had on their lives.
Doo's association with moonshine, a type of illicitly produced whiskey, is a testament to the rugged and unconventional nature of his character. Moonshining has a long history in the Appalachian region, where Doo and Loretta both hailed from, and it was often associated with the gritty, self-reliant spirit of the people in that area. The quote suggests that while Doo may not have been directly involved in the production of moonshine, he was deeply entrenched in its transportation and distribution. This alludes to his involvement in the moonshine trade, which was likely a part of the colorful and sometimes controversial aspects of his life.
The quote also hints at the larger-than-life persona that Doo embodied. It suggests that he was involved in a significant quantity of moonshine, enough to be metaphorically described as "an ocean of it." This portrayal of Doo as a larger-than-life figure adds to the mystique and intrigue surrounding his character. It hints at a man who lived on the edge and was unafraid to embrace the unconventional and daring aspects of life.
Loretta Lynn's acknowledgment of Doo's involvement in moonshine also sheds light on the complexities of their relationship. Their marriage was filled with highs and lows, and Doo's larger-than-life personality and involvement in the moonshine trade likely added to the drama and challenges they faced. Doo's adventurous and at times rebellious spirit may have been a source of both excitement and difficulty for Loretta, contributing to the rich tapestry of their life together.
In the broader context of Loretta Lynn's music and career, the quote serves as a reminder of the colorful and at times tumultuous backdrop against which her success as a country music icon unfolded. Doo's presence and the experiences they shared undoubtedly influenced her songwriting and the themes that permeate her music. His involvement in the moonshine trade and the larger-than-life persona he embodied likely provided inspiration for some of the stories and characters depicted in Loretta's songs, adding depth and authenticity to her music.
In conclusion, Loretta Lynn's quote about her late husband Doo encapsulates the colorful and unconventional aspects of his character and their life together. It sheds light on Doo's involvement in the moonshine trade, his larger-than-life persona, and the complexities of their relationship. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the rich and often challenging experiences that contributed to the fabric of Loretta Lynn's life and career.