This is one of Nick's many songs built around a story, although this one isn't as immediately clear as some of his others.
It concerns a killer, though exactly what he did isn't explained. He's convicted and sentenced to death, all the while claiming he didn't do it. While on Death Row, he discovers Christianity, and in his final few moments before dying, he confesses (to himself, and to God) that he is guilty of it after all. The Mercy Seat of the title is a reference to the throne of God, and also to the electric chair.
This is one of Nick's many songs built around a story, although this one isn't as immediately clear as some of his others.
It concerns a killer, though exactly what he did isn't explained. He's convicted and sentenced to death, all the while claiming he didn't do it. While on Death Row, he discovers Christianity, and in his final few moments before dying, he confesses (to himself, and to God) that he is guilty of it after all. The Mercy Seat of the title is a reference to the throne of God, and also to the electric chair.