Rain

Bishop Allen's song 'Rain' delves into the theme of enduring hardship as a necessary step towards improvement and renewal. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with internal and external turmoil, symbolized by the relentless rain. The opening lines, 'Bed clothes, why am I in bed clothes? Watching out the window,' suggest a state of inertia and introspection, where the protagonist is stuck in a cycle of uncertainty and anticipation. The fire escape imagery and the shaking hands convey a sense of imminent collapse, yet also a readiness to face whatever comes next.

The chorus, 'Oh let the rain fall down and wash this world away,' serves as a cathartic plea for cleansing and transformation. The rain, often a metaphor for sadness or difficulty, is here embraced as a necessary force for change. The line 'Cause if it's ever gonna get any better, it's gotta get worse for a day' encapsulates the song's central message: that sometimes, things must deteriorate before they can improve. This perspective is both realistic and hopeful, acknowledging the pain of the present while holding onto the promise of a better future.

As the song progresses, the protagonist ventures out into the storm, symbolizing a willingness to confront and navigate through their challenges. The imagery of drowning and the futile umbrella underscore the overwhelming nature of these struggles. Yet, the act of grabbing a guitar and paddling towards distant voices suggests a search for connection and meaning amidst the chaos. The repetition of 'It's gotta get worse for a day' reinforces the idea that enduring temporary suffering is a part of the journey towards eventual peace and clarity.