End Of The Day

Al Stewart's song "End Of The Day" paints a poignant picture of a relationship caught in the ebb and flow of time. The lyrics open with a serene yet melancholic scene of a woman standing at dusk, symbolizing the end of a day and metaphorically, the twilight of a phase in her life. The imagery of the 'bright house lights' and 'torches light the western skies' evokes a sense of transition, hinting at the inevitable changes that come with time.

The song delves into the complexities of a long-term relationship. The lines 'Sometimes she thinks she knows him just too well, Other times not much at all' reflect the paradox of intimacy and distance that can coexist in a partnership. This duality is further emphasized by the notion of living under a 'familiar spell,' suggesting a routine or comfort zone that both binds and confines them. The idea of 'catching each other when they fall' underscores the mutual support that sustains them, even as they navigate the uncertainties of life.

Stewart also touches on the transient nature of life and relationships. The verse 'Nothing lasts, well she knows, try to hang on, When it's gone, you'll be burned' speaks to the inevitability of change and the pain of loss. The mention of 'fashions and friends come and go' serves as a reminder that everything is temporary. The woman's yearning to 'run out where the day meets the night' symbolizes a desire for escape and new beginnings, yet she remains tethered to her current life until she faces the ultimate realization of change—a 'stranger lying in her arms.' This final image poignantly captures the essence of transformation and the bittersweet nature of love and life.