Bad Penny

Rory Gallagher takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster with 'Bad Penny', as the song delves into the tumultuous feelings associated with a difficult past relationship. The opening lines set a tone of inevitable, yet unwelcome, confrontation with the past, as if the 'bad penny' has once again resurfaced despite attempts to move forward. Gallagher's vivid imagery of a misty lens suggests a blurred and possibly distorted view, indicating how the past can cloud one's perception of the present.

The journey continues with a reflection on betrayal and brokenness, with words like 'double-dealed' and 'broke like a shell' illustrating deep wounds that have not fully healed. However, there's a turning point where the narrator draws a line, refusing to let the situation spiral as it did before. This marks a stance of self-preservation and an effort to regain control, underscoring a resolve to prevent history from repeating itself.

Amid episodes of haunting memories during 'stormy nights,' Gallagher depicts the struggle to completely sever the emotional ties to the past. The lyrics suggest a ghostly presence of the old flame that lingers, making it hard to completely forget and move on. Yet, Gallagher portrays a sense of personal growth and healing, using 'times sure have changed' to affirm that things are different now, implying lessons have been learned.

The emotional journey comes full circle with the repetition of the opening verse, indicating that while the past may reappear, the narrator's response to it has evolved. There's a newfound strength and perhaps weariness, as the realization that one must actively choose to break the cycle of a bad penny's return. The final sentiment leaves listeners with the acknowledgment that endings are necessary and that one must actively take charge of their own healing and future.