Meaning of "Jesse James Bolero" by Prefab Sprout

The lyrics of "Jesse James Bolero" by Prefab Sprout paint a portrait of a man who defies expectations and refuses to conform to societal norms. Jesse James is depicted as a renegade who marches to the beat of his own drum, living life on his terms and embracing risk and adventure. However, beneath his playful exterior lies a sense of foreboding and unfulfilled potential. The mention of Jesse's fate being "unfinished forever" suggests that his rebellious spirit ultimately leads to an unresolved ending, symbolizing the consequences of refusing to adhere to conventions. The reference to "cheap music" ending and a desire for higher art like Bach implies a longing for deeper meaning and substance in life, highlighting the contrast between Jesse's wild nature and his unseen yearning for something more profound. Ultimately, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of living a life solely driven by rebellion and individualism.