Roll The Bones

Shakey Graves' song 'Roll The Bones' delves into the themes of existentialism, uncertainty, and the human condition. The phrase 'roll the bones' is a metaphor for taking risks and embracing the unknown, akin to rolling dice in a game of chance. The lyrics encourage listeners to let go of material possessions and societal expectations, symbolized by actions like cutting off hair, unplugging phones, and selling belongings. This suggests a shedding of superficial layers to confront deeper truths about life and existence.

The song also touches on the inevitability of death and the futility of trying to escape one's past. Lines like 'try to forget all your enemies and debts' and 'they’ll just chase you round and give you sour dreams' highlight the persistent nature of unresolved issues and the haunting memories that follow us. Despite these struggles, the song maintains a sense of ambiguity and acceptance, encapsulated in the repeated refrain 'yeah so it goes,' a nod to the inevitability and randomness of life's events.

Shakey Graves, known for his blend of folk, blues, and rock, uses a minimalist yet evocative lyrical style to convey profound messages. The song's existential musings are underscored by a sense of resignation and curiosity about the unknown, as seen in the lines 'they say someday everybody dies alone' and 'hey who really knows.' This reflects a broader philosophical inquiry into the nature of life, death, and the human experience, urging listeners to embrace uncertainty and live authentically, despite the inherent unpredictability of existence.