Meaning of "Cash On The Barrelhead" by Gram Parsons

"Cash On The Barrelhead" tells the story of the consequences of one's actions and the importance of taking responsibility. The narrator's initial decision to loiter ultimately leads to them being faced with two choices: pay a fine or serve time in jail. The song highlights how life presents us with options, and it is up to us to choose the path we want to take. The struggle the narrator faces after paying the fine serves as a reminder that actions have consequences that we must deal with. The mention of the Greyhound bus symbolizes the journey of life and how sometimes we must pay a price to move forward. Overall, the lyrics emphasize the idea of accountability and facing the music for our decisions.