The song "Future King" by Mason Jennings tells the story of a couple who are determined to live life according to their own terms and not be constrained by societal expectations or rules. The lyrics depict a sense of freedom, adventure, and rebellion against authority. The song begins with the couple observing the world outside their window. They witness the tower "kissing the halo of the moon," which symbolizes a celestial union and the beauty they see in the world around them. The mention of friends in a field suggests a carefree and communal atmosphere. The protagonist reminisces about the beloved shirt left hanging on a fence, possibly as a scarecrow to ward off crows. This detail exemplifies the couple's unorthodox and whimsical approach to life, not conforming to established norms. As they navigate through life, the couple acknowledges that no one truly knows how their story will unfold. They are determined to fulfill their dreams before their eventual demise. The line "You and I, before we die, we're going to give this dream a try" conveys their unwavering determination to pursue their shared aspirations. The chorus reflects the couple's defiance toward the opinions of others. They know that society will say they are wrong in their actions, but they believe in following their intuition and embracing their own unique path. They view the world as a song that they can shape and create as they go along. The image of sailing paper airplanes down the stairs and hearing sirens in the warm summer air suggests a sense of playfulness and youthfulness. They lean out the window and gaze at the Big Dipper, which symbolizes their connection to the vastness of the universe and their exploration of the unknown. The darkness growing and nobody knowing "just how our story goes" highlights the uncertainty and unpredictability of life. Again, they reaffirm their determination to live authentically and pursue their dreams. The song concludes with the couple questioning their significance to each other. They wonder if they are simply passing through each other's lives or if they are destined to be more. The reference to being a "future king" suggests a desire to have a lasting and meaningful impact on each other's lives. In summary, "Future King" is a song about defying societal expectations, embracing freedom, and living life boldly. It celebrates the couple's determination to follow their dreams and create their own rules, regardless of what others may say.
