The song "On The Green" by Jamie T tells a dark and tragic story of violence and guilt. The lyrics describe an incident where someone, possibly the narrator, hears a woman screaming. An old man, possibly trying to help, says an ambulance is on the way. The song then reveals that someone, presumably the narrator, had a gun in their hand and claims that the woman shot first, resulting in her being injured. The lyrics suggest that the narrator feels a tremendous amount of guilt for causing harm to the woman, who they refer to as their baby. They express a desire for help and question their own actions, wondering if it really can't be them responsible for the violence. The recurring theme of young lovers dying indicates a pattern of tragic events. The narrator then reveals that they have been imprisoned and condemned to hell for their actions. They express a sense of despair and the overwhelming presence of angels at their door, possibly referring to internal struggles or hallucinations brought on by guilt. The lyrics also indicate thoughts of suicide and the desire for it to end. There is a mention of China Town and a request to the preacher to ask the undertaker for bribery. This suggests a plan to have their body stolen and buried on the green, possibly indicating a desire to escape the consequences of their actions. The final verse introduces another character, Young Annie, who may be a friend or lover, and implies that they were both trigger happy and involved in arguments with friends. The song ends with the acknowledgment that the narrator is not the only one guilty of committing this crime, suggesting a wider context of violence. Overall, "On The Green" explores themes of guilt, violence, despair, and the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics tell a troubling and tragic story of a violent incident and its aftermath.
