The lyrics of "Once Upon A Time" depict a gritty and desperate tenement town where survival is tough and one must do whatever it takes to get by. The protagonist reflects on the harsh realities of life, the lies that have been told, and the notion that the world doesn't work the way we wish it did. The repeated phrase "somebody's knocking" hints at the constant struggles and challenges faced by the narrator, while reminiscing about a time when things may have been different.

Meaning of "Once Upon A Time" by Shadow King

The lyrics of "Once Upon A Time" by Shadow King paint a vivid picture of a harsh and unforgiving urban landscape where survival is a constant struggle. The imagery of a boy being born in a bed of thorns and wearing his halo hanging from his horns symbolizes the corruption and hardening of innocence in a world that offers little room for purity. The tenement town represents a place steeped in desperation, sin, and deceit, where one must be vigilant and willing to take what they need to survive. The references to counting blessings and tears, killing time and years, and the bottom of the river in the bottom of your cup allude to the inevitable hardships and sacrifices one must endure in such an environment. The recurring phrase "somebody's knocking" signifies the persistent challenges and threats faced by the narrator as they navigate this unforgiving world. Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of resignation to the harsh realities of life, the understanding that the world doesn't always operate in a fair or just manner, and the need to be tough and resilient in the face of adversity.