George Jones' song "Somebody Always Paints the Wall" is a country ballad that reflects on the struggles and setbacks in the narrator's life. The lyrics metaphorically describe the constant disappointment and obstacles he faces, symbolized by someone always painting the wall. The opening lines, "If my old truck was a horse I'd have to shoot it, Lord, the day my ship came in I was waiting for a train", convey a sense of resignation and bad luck. The narrator feels like he is stuck with an unreliable vehicle and misses opportunities for success. The chorus, "Every time I get a grip I always lose it, I can't enjoy the sunshine for the rain", illustrates the continuous cycle of the narrator's life. Just when he starts to gain some stability or happiness, something or someone always comes along to ruin it. The lyrics further highlight this theme with lines like, "Every time I think I'm off and running, I'm barely up to a crawl" and "Every time I get a leg up on the ladder of success, I shake and fall". These phrases depict the constant struggle and inability to maintain progress or achieve long-lasting success. The song also acknowledges the narrator's apology and gratitude towards his partner, who remains supportive throughout these challenges. Lines such as "Hon., you know I'm always saying I'm sorry, but you stand by me through it all" show that despite the ongoing setbacks, he has someone who remains by his side. Overall, "Somebody Always Paints the Wall" reflects on the narrator's constant misfortunes and the feeling of never quite achieving what he desires. The song captures the cyclical nature of disappointment, emphasizing the struggles he faces in various aspects of life, whether it's career opportunities, personal achievements, or even small moments of happiness.
