The Crooked Lantern

A narrative ballad about a night in a subliminal place. A departure from my more typical work, but more fun. Lyrics: When my ex broke up with me, My friend took me to a place Cross the road. Down on the green. The old sign flickered “The Crooked Lantern” And we went right in. Candlelight danced across the walls. A neon sign above the fireplace. Menu said something bout “Knight-lite Lager”. What does that mean? Something felt off; something felt right- Is it a tavern or is it a bar? ’Cause I can’t tell what world I’m in. There’s a jukebox fighting a mandolin, And a knight on the wall raising his tin. If this place has a name, it’s not one I’ve learned— But maybe that’s the point of the Crooked Lantern. The bartender asked us, "What'll it be? A tender or a keeper, first rounds on me.” The table over is shooting shots. A booth in the corner is hauling shanties. I asked my friend: “listen man- How long you plan on being here?” He smiled and said: “you tell me.” The candlelight got a whole lot brighter. That neon sign just changed color Still don’t know about “Knight-Lager” - taste’s alright. This place is coming alive! Something felt off; something feels right- Is it a tavern or is it a bar? ’Cause I can’t tell what world I’m in. There’s a jukebox fighting a mandolin, And a knight on the wall raising his tin. If this place has a name, it’s not one I’ve learned— But maybe that’s the point of the Crooked Lantern. Another glass! Sure is magical, It must be the lantern glow Since I forgot what I came here for. Is it a tavern or is it a bar? ’Cause I can’t tell what world I’m in. There’s a jukebox fighting a mandolin, And a knight on the wall raising his tin. (Laughs) Is it a tavern or is it a bar? ’Cause I can’t tell what world I’m in. There’s a mandolin fighting a jukebox, That knight just toasted me! … (Hic!) ... Huh… was I saying? Crooked… lan—tern… learned— And that’s……… The Crooked… Lant—… Production Note Story and Song Lyrics by: theMoonPeopleStaging. Music and Audio produced using AI synthesis.