In Mason Jennings's song "12/8 Time," the lyrics tell a story of a troubled relationship and the protagonist's decision to move on from it. The song starts with the mention of 12/8 time, which is a musical time signature often associated with the blues. Here, it symbolizes the protagonist's troubled life, comparing it to a "life of crime" with handcuffs and billy clubs coming down on him. The protagonist's partner or love interest expresses dissatisfaction with their relationship. She believes that rock 'n roll, which may represent the protagonist's passion or lifestyle, only brings her bad dreams. In response, she plans the protagonist's funeral metaphorically and leaves him for dead, symbolized by a "single corpse in a double bed." However, later in the song, she shows up at the protagonist's front porch, knocking on his door. The protagonist refuses to let her in, indicating that he has moved on and is not willing to give her another chance. Her key no longer fits, representing that their relationship is over and cannot be repaired. Despite her attempts to win him back, the protagonist describes her as not being "all there" mentally and paints a picture of her physical appearance, suggesting that looks alone are not enough to salvage the relationship. He no longer finds her attractive or enticing enough to forgive or forget the hurtful things she has said. The protagonist declares that he will not let her in, emphasizing his decision to move on and not be swayed by her actions or pleas. The repetition of "knock knock knock" emphasizes her persistence in trying to get inside, but the protagonist remains steadfast. He even references the famous fairy tale of the three little pigs, stating "Not by the hair of my chinny-chin-chin," indicating that he will not allow her back into his life. Overall, "12/8 Time" portrays a story of a relationship gone sour, with the protagonist ultimately choosing to distance himself from the past and not let his partner back into his life.
