40 Days & 40 Nights

Ben Caplan's "40 Days & 40 Nights" is a soulful expression of deep yearning and the endurance of love. The song's title and repeated phrase reference the biblical period of trial and tribulation, often associated with a time of testing and purification. Caplan uses this motif to convey the intensity of his longing for his absent partner, equating his emotional suffering to a spiritual or existential ordeal.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who feels lost and tormented without his beloved. The desert and sea are metaphors for his desolate emotional state, emphasizing the harshness of his solitude. Caplan's mention of dancing with 'lady temptation' and walking with the devil suggests he's faced with challenges and temptations in his partner's absence, yet none can replace the deep connection he shares with his true love. The song also touches on themes of fidelity and the nature of true love, countering the cynicism of those who doubt its existence or endurance.

Musically, Caplan is known for his rich, folk-inspired sound, and his powerful voice adds to the emotional weight of the song. The repetition of the phrase '40 days and 40 nights' throughout the song serves as a haunting reminder of the passage of time and the constancy of his longing. The song is a testament to the strength of love and the pain of separation, as well as a declaration of commitment to his partner, friend, and lover.