The lyrics tell a humorous story about a horse named Bad Luck who may not be attractive but is skilled at bucking. The protagonist puts his mother on the horse, resulting in some chaos, and eventually takes the horse to a rodeo where it wins a prize. However, the horse's bucking antics continue to cause trouble for the protagonist and his family.

Meaning of "That Buckin' Song" by Robert Earl Keen

The lyrics of "That Buckin' Song" by Robert Earl Keen use humor and wordplay to explore the unpredictable and sometimes troublesome nature of life, represented by the unruly horse named Bad Luck. The horse serves as a metaphor for challenges and obstacles that can unexpectedly disrupt one's plans and cause chaos. The protagonist's various experiences with the horse, from winning prizes to losing possessions, reflect the unpredictable nature of life's twists and turns. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that one must be cautious and prepared for the unexpected, as challenges can arise from unexpected sources like a "bucker." The humorous tone of the song allows the listener to reflect on life's unpredictability and challenges in a lighthearted way.