The essence of Stagger Lee

He represented defying authority, courage, and rising above the law. They say his deification, glorification, and admiration came from enslaved peoples of the plantation fields and Southern prisons well before 1890 when he was recognized as a legend in African American Blues. Blues is one of the most recognized cultural genres in Hoodoo alongside other genres such as gospel which stem from negro spirituals. 

Stagger Lee is a spirit known to push social boundaries, he took no violation, however, he did rebelliously violate. He is known as a fiery spirit. His stories provoked fire in those who needed it while it was a way to disobey being a goody two shoes which was seen as a sign of oppression. This energy sparked triumph, victory, and power. Today, many may not agree with Stagerlee's acts but back in the 1800s, his rebellion was seen as inspirational and even heroic in a sense. He was a gambler which was common at that time. He was considered vengeful by some. His stories suggest that he executed a man in cold blood which led to his arrest and he later was executed in prison. 

He is a spirit who is said to once lived, deified, and admired because it is said that he stated that he will "rule hell by himself." Songs and tales about him encoded a spiritual message although many would call the songs about him secular blues music and not necessarily spiritually sacred music because of his acts described. However, that did not stop admiration of his spirit, therefore making him spiritual.