The Prodigal Son
The Gatlin Brothers Lyrics

There was a young man who had the best of everything
Introducing the main character of the story as a privileged individual

He was the first born of a wealthy man
Detailing the family status of the main character

But he was not satisfied with the best of everything
Describing the main character's discontent despite his privilege

So he took his possessions in his hand
Showing that the main character decides to take matters into his own hands

He traveled far and wide and he tasted worldly pleasure
Describing the main character's journey of seeking fulfillment through worldly experiences

But deep inside, he was lonely without measure
Revealing the main character's underlying feelings of emptiness

He wound up in a pig pen, nearly dead
Depicting the main character's lowest point in life

Then he raised his eyes toward Heaven and he said
Depicting the main character's moment of realization and surrender

I will arise and go back to my father's house
Expressing the main character's decision to return home and seek forgiveness

I will beg him to forgive me for the fool I've been
Acknowledging the main character's mistakes and desire to make amends

I will gladly be a servant if he'll take me back again
Demonstrating the main character's humility and willingness to make right

So I did arise and go back to my father's house
Reiterating the main character's actions of returning home

I said, Father, I'm sick and tired of being alone
Revealing the main character's motivation for returning home

And then he wrapped his arms around me
Depicting the father's acceptance and love

And said, Son, you're welcome home
Endowing the main character with a sense of belonging and forgiveness