Meaning of "Lay Of The Last Tinker" by Donovan

The lyrics of "Lay Of The Last Tinker" paint a vivid picture of a chance encounter between two individuals coming from different backgrounds. The imagery of the good man with the ring and the dancing monkey creates a sense of whimsy and intrigue, hinting at hidden depths. The mention of sharing cheese, bread, and wine speaks to the idea of communion and connection, breaking bread together as a symbol of unity. The tambourine, dances, and tinker queens allude to a world of mystery and beauty, while the scar of an ancient lashing suggests a past of hardship and struggle. Overall, the song seems to celebrate the meeting of strangers, the sharing of simple pleasures, and the richness of human experience.