Doin' My Time
Redemption's Melody: A Prisoner's Longing
Lyrics
On this rock pile, with my ball and chain
Expressing the hardship of being confined in a prison, metaphorically described as a "rock pile," with a reference to a burdensome relationship ("ball and chain").
They call me by a number not a name Lord, Lord
Conveying the dehumanizing aspect of being referred to by a number instead of a name in the prison system, highlighting a loss of individual identity and dignity.
Gotta do my time, I gotta do my time
Acknowledging the necessity of serving time in prison, emphasizing the inevitability of facing consequences for one's actions.
With an aching heart, on that gal of mine
Describing the emotional pain ("aching heart") experienced due to separation from a loved one during the incarceration.
You can here my hammer, you can hear my saw
Using the sounds of a hammer and saw as a metaphor for the laborious and repetitive nature of prison work, drawing a parallel to the folk legend John Henry.
Gonna sing it like John Henry all day long Lord, Lord
Expressing the commitment to endure the hardships of prison labor throughout the day, referencing the legendary John Henry, known for his strength and determination.
Gotta do my time, I gotta do my time
Reiterating the inevitability of serving time in prison, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to fulfill the sentence.
With an aching heart, on that gal of mine
Reemphasizing the emotional pain and longing for a loved one ("gal of mine") while serving the sentence.
When that old judge looked down at me
Recalling a moment in court when a judge sentenced the speaker to prison, acknowledging responsibility for the actions that led to incarceration.
Said I put you in that penitentiary Lord, Lord
Highlighting the gravity of the situation by mentioning the sentencing to a penitentiary, seeking mercy or understanding ("Lord, Lord").
Gotta do my time, I gotta do my time
Reiterating the acknowledgment of the need to serve time in prison, expressing a sense of duty despite the challenges.
With an aching heart, on that gal of mine
Reaffirming the emotional toll of separation from the loved one during the imprisonment.
Well now it won't be long, just a few more days
Anticipating the end of the prison term, conveying hope and counting down the days until release.
They'll let me out of here I'm gonna stay Lord, Lord
Expressing a determination to stay with the loved one upon release, implying a commitment to a better future.
With that gal of mine, with that gal of mine
Reiterating the desire to be with the loved one ("gal of mine") after serving the sentence.
She's a waited for me while I've done my time
Highlighting the loyalty and patience of the loved one who waited during the speaker's time in prison.
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