The speaker shares a sad story about being locked in a prison cell for eighteen years. They reflect on the events that led to their imprisonment, including a violent encounter with a friend and using a knife. Despite the passage of time, the speaker still has a life sentence and feels a deep longing for their wife and daughter. They express frustration at being unable to be with their loved ones and fear that they will spend the rest of their days behind bars.

Meaning of "Life to Go" by Stonewall Jackson

The lyrics of "Life to Go" by Stonewall Jackson delve into the heartbreaking reality of a life sentence, highlighting the emotions and thoughts of the incarcerated narrator. The song portrays the speaker's regret and remorse for the actions that led them to prison while emphasizing the longing they feel for their family. The choice to focus on the passage of time within the lyrics is symbolic of the perpetual punishment they face. Despite the verse's simplicity, it conveys a profound sense of despair, isolation, and resignation. The repetition of phrases such as "long long time," "still got life to go," and "eighteen years" emphasizes the endless nature of their sentence. It serves as a reminder of the unbreakable cycle they find themselves trapped in, where the dreams of returning to their family gradually fade away as years pass by. The lyrics also shed light on the inner conflict between regret and survival, as the narrator acknowledges that time does not mean much to them since they have already lost so much. It explores the concept of being physically imprisoned while also being emotionally chained to the past. The song emphasizes the human longing for connection and the devastating consequences of actions that lead to a lifetime of separation. Ultimately, "Life to Go" serves as a poignant reflection on the devastating impact of imprisonment and the profound loss experienced by the incarcerated.