Discover the poetic beauty in ‘I’m Not the Man’ by 10,000 Maniacs. This lyric breakdown takes you on a journey through the artist’s thoughts, emotions, and the story they aim to tell. From clever metaphors to evocative imagery, we delve into the nuances that make this song a lyrical masterpiece. Whether you’re a fan of 10,000 Maniacs or a lover of well-crafted words, our detailed analysis will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of this song.
It crawls on his back, won’t ever let him be.
Stares at the walls until the cinder blocks can breathe.
His eyes have gone away, escaping over time.
He rules a crowded nation inside his mind.
He knows that night like his hand.
He knows every move he made.
Late shift, the bell that rang, a time card won’t fade.
10:05 his truck pulled home.
10:05 he climbed his stair, about the time he was accused of being there.
But I’m not the man.
He goes free as I wait on the row for the man to test the rope he’ll slip around my throat
And silence me.
On the day he was tried no witnesses testified.
Nothing but evidence, not hard to falsify.
His own confession was a prosecutor’s prize,
Made up of fear, of rage and of outright lies.
But I’m not the man.
He goes free as the candle vigil glows, as they burn my clothes.
As the crowd cries, “Hang him slow!” and I feel my blood go cold, he goes free.
Call out the KKK, they’re wild after me.
And with that frenzied look of half-demented zeal,
They’d love to serve me up my final meal.
Who’ll read my final right and hear my last appeal?
Who struck this devil’s deal?