I though always thought (for some reason) that Johnny didn’t accept the golden fiddle. And I checked the original lyrics again, there’s nothing about him taking/not taking the fiddle, but I always imagined (when listening to the song) that during “I told you once, you son of a bitch, I’m the best that’s ever been” Johnny just fucking kicks the golden fiddle in the direction of the devil - making him run away with even more shame :)
I like your alternative interpretation
I though always thought (for some reason) that Johnny didn’t accept the golden fiddle. And I checked the original lyrics again, there’s nothing about him taking/not taking the fiddle, but I always imagined (when listening to the song) that during “I told you once, you son of a bitch, I’m the best that’s ever been” Johnny just fucking kicks the golden fiddle in the direction of the devil - making him run away with even more shame :)