The song "I Refuse to Lie Down" by Jimmy Nail is about a person who is unjustly imprisoned and maintains their innocence. The protagonist reflects on their life behind bars, expressing their determination to keep fighting for justice. The lyrics convey a sense of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. The phrase "One day at a time" suggests that the protagonist is taking each day as it comes, trying to find a way to cope with their situation. Despite being blinded by the light (perhaps symbolizing a false promise or hope), they acknowledge the heavy price they paid for it. The protagonist speaks of their daily routine - rising each morning and praying for their return to the outside world, longing to reunite with their loved ones. They reveal that it has been at least ten years since they were imprisoned, believing they should be free based on their innocence. They assert that while someone can try to break a person's will or turn them into a bad person with time, they cannot achieve that with the protagonist. They refuse to give up their integrity, emphasizing their innocence and their unwillingness to be defeated. They declare themselves an "innocent man" and assert their inner strength. The lyrics also mention the difficult environment in which the protagonist is held, where the sun refuses to shine. This could be a metaphor for the darkness and despair they experience in prison. Despite the loss of their soul and freedom, their memories of a better time give them hope and fuel their determination to find a way out. Overall, "I Refuse to Lie Down" is a song about resilience, defiance, and the unwavering belief in one's innocence. It captures the emotional journey of someone fighting for justice, refusing to let their circumstances define them.
