The Ernest Tubb song "Dime At A Time" tells the story of a person down on their luck, relying on a two-dollar bill to pass the time. The protagonist doesn't have much money and can only afford to play their favorite song on the jukebox one dime at a time. The lyrics suggest that the person's whole life savings are contained within the two-dollar bill. This emphasizes their financial struggle, as it is all they have left. Despite their limited funds, they find solace in playing the same old song on the jukebox repeatedly until closing time. In the song, the protagonist meets someone who seems just as lonely and miserable. They bond over their shared despair, suggesting that misery loves company. The lyrics imply that if the other person had a place to go, they would have already left, just like the protagonist. The phrase "buy the wind" suggests that the protagonist is asking someone to cover the cost of playing their song on the jukebox. By offering to "buy the wind," they are essentially asking for a small favor, as a dime is all they need to play the song they love. Overall, "Dime At A Time" conveys a sense of loneliness, financial struggle, and finding comfort in familiar songs amidst hardship. It reflects the challenges and emotions faced by individuals who have hit rock bottom and are trying to make the most of what little they have.
