Jens Lekman's Farewell Song to Rocky Dennis
Jens Lekman Lyrics

Early September and the kids start school
The changing of the seasons and the start of the school year is a reminder of the passing of time and the things left undone.

Leaves are floating in the swimming pool
The image of fallen leaves in a swimming pool is a symbol of the fleeting nature of time and the inevitable passing of youth.

I wish I had a proper reason to cry
The singer longs for a concrete reason to mourn, rather than feeling lost and uncertain without a sense of purpose or direction.

A reason not so abstract
The singer desires a tangible, concrete sense of loss or sadness, rather than something that is difficult to define or understand.

More like a broken clause in a contract
The singer compares his sense of loss to that of a legal agreement, something that is clear and defined but has been broken or violated.

All those things you're supposed to do
The singer reflects on the expectations placed upon him and the societal norms he feels pressure to conform to.

I could have done them if I had you
The singer believes that having a partner or companion would have given him the motivation and support to meet these goals.

You could have made me a righteous citizen
The singer believes that a partner or companion would have helped him to become a more upstanding and responsible member of society.

I could have made all those right decisions
The singer believes that he would have been better able to make good choices and avoid mistakes if he had someone to offer him guidance and support.

But now I don't know who my friend is
The singer feels lost and disconnected, unsure of who he can trust or rely on for support.

Can you tell me Rocky Dennis
The singer turns to the character of Rocky Dennis, a figure who represents strength and resilience in the face of adversity, for guidance and hope.

Mama told me I was born a lion
The singer reflects on the words of his mother, who raised him to be strong and resilient, like a lion.

Mama told me I was born with a belly to lie on
The singer recalls the nurturing and supportive nature of his relationship with his mother, who provided him with comfort and love.

Mama told me I was born a liar
The singer acknowledges his own flaws and tendency to deceive others, but also recognizes that he was born with the capacity to love and to be loved.

Mama told me I was born with a heart to rely on
The singer recalls his mother's belief in him and the strength of the emotional bond they shared.

Can you tell me, can you tell me tonight ooh ooh
The singer reaches out to the character of Rocky Dennis with a sense of urgency, seeking guidance and support in a time of uncertainty and confusion.

Ooh tonight
The singer emphasizes the immediacy and importance of his need for guidance and reassurance, reflecting his emotional state and desire for connection.