Meaning of "Crooked Piece of Time" by John Prine

"Crooked Piece of Time" by John Prine speaks to the idea that life is not always fair or straightforward. The repetition of the line "Things got rough, things got tough, things got harder than hard" emphasizes the trials and tribulations faced by the narrator, who is simply trying to survive in a difficult world. The imagery of the wind blowing out a picture and candle symbolizes the transient nature of life and how quickly things can change. The repeated refrain of being born too late and dying too soon points to a sense of dissatisfaction with the limited time and opportunities in life. Overall, the song conveys a sense of resignation to the challenges of existence and a reflection on the unpredictability of life. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the present moment, despite its imperfections.