This riddle describes a lock and key set, where the lock is analogized to a father and the key represents his son. Like a father and son, a lock and key are closely related and depend upon one another. When an old-fashioned lock is put on a door, it will hang down from the door latch. This situation and the lock's position are compared to a father who has taken his own life. Despite their closeness, after a father dies, his son must wander away alone, likely feeling lost and missing his natural companion. In the same way, a key must be carried away with the owner after the lock is put in place.