Song meaning of Crooked Piece of Time by John Prine

The song "Crooked Piece of Time" by John Prine conveys a message about the difficulties and challenges of life, emphasizing the unpredictable and uncertain nature of our existence. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where things can get rough, tough, and harder than hard. The line "we were just trying to make a livin' in our backyard" suggests that despite their efforts, the characters in the song are struggling to make ends meet.

The phrase "born too late, died too soon" reflects a sense of regret and dissatisfaction with the timing of their lives, further amplified by the statement that "anxiety's a terrible crime." This line suggests that the stress and worry faced by individuals in this crooked piece of time can be overwhelming and burdensome.

The repetition of the phrase "it's a crooked piece of time" throughout the song emphasizes the theme and reinforces the idea that life is characterized by disorder and unpredictability. The ill wind blowing away a picture and extinguishing a candle represents unexpected setbacks, symbolizing the transient and fragile nature of happiness and stability.

Overall, the song suggests that life is filled with challenges and hardships, but despite these difficulties, it is essential to persevere and find meaning in the midst of the crooked piece of time we inhabit.