Crooked Man

Susan Ashton's song "Crooked Man" paints a vivid picture of a morally corrupt individual whose life is marked by deceit, greed, and a relentless pursuit of power. The lyrics describe a man whose heart is so cold that it could freeze anyone who touches it, symbolizing his emotional detachment and lack of empathy. His 'steel soul' and readiness to make others bleed highlight his ruthless nature. The imagery of bait and hook, push and shove, and the belief in 'whatever it took' underscores his manipulative and aggressive tactics to achieve his goals, yet nothing ever satisfies him.

The chorus introduces the metaphor of the 'crooked man' who walks a 'crooked mile,' living a life of deception behind a 'crooked smile.' This metaphor suggests a life built on lies and moral compromise. The line 'Goodness, like an arrow, lodges where it can, but it never pierces the heart of a crooked man' poignantly illustrates that despite any attempts at goodness, it never truly reaches or changes him. His insatiable lust for power and control, coupled with subtle lies and half-truths, further cements his downfall.

The final verses depict the lonely and uncelebrated end of the crooked man. No one mourns his passing; instead, some are even glad he's gone. His legacy is described as 'cold and gray,' mirroring the emptiness and negativity he left behind. The 'mocking words carved in stone' serve as a final testament to his life of moral bankruptcy. Through this song, Ashton delivers a powerful message about the consequences of living a life devoid of integrity and compassion.