The song "Lord Knows" by Upchurch & Bottleneck is a personal reflection on the struggles and mistakes of the narrators' lives. The lyrics express that they are not saints, highlighting their flaws and acknowledging their sinful nature. They describe how they only dress up on Sundays, indicating that they may not always portray themselves as their true selves. On Friday nights, they feel the temptation and darkness within them, symbolized by the devil in their veins. The mention of quarters in their pocket making the jukebox sing suggests that music has been a source of solace and expression for them, helping them cope with the lonesome feeling of having lost their way on a one-lane path that nobody has paved for them. They have experienced good times and heartbreaks, embracing their identity as sinners rather than pretending to be saints. The song then delves into a specific period of their lives, where they engaged in reckless behavior, such as breaking into cars during the night. However, karma eventually caught up with them when their grandfather passed away, causing them to reflect and reevaluate their choices. The narrator mentions dropping out of school and working hard in physically demanding and labor-intensive jobs, demonstrating their determination to make a living despite the odds stacked against them. They express gratitude for being able to stand on their own two feet, acknowledging the role of a higher power, which they refer to as God, in guiding them towards a better path. The second part of the song delves into their experience of spending time in jail, feeling rejected and isolated from the outside world. However, they find the strength to face their mistakes and take responsibility for their actions. They express a desire for self-improvement, stating that they want to be better than the person they used to be. The song emphasizes the narrator's individual journey, with nobody paving their way or offering assistance. They acknowledge that they have not lived a saintly life, but they are grateful for the better days they have experienced and credit their spiritual beliefs for providing them with guidance. Overall, "Lord Knows" is a reflective song that explores the struggles, mistakes, and personal growth of the narrators. It conveys a message of self-awareness, acceptance, and the desire for personal redemption.
