Summer Rain

Chris De Burgh's song "Summer Rain" is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, love, and cherished memories. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an old man reminiscing about his youth, particularly the moments spent with a little boy, presumably his son or grandson, by the sea. The imagery of weekends under the sun and the playful mischief of small boys in the water evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler, carefree times.

The recurring theme of the English weather, with its characteristic rain even on sunny days, serves as a metaphor for the bittersweet nature of memories. The song the old man recalls, with its refrain about summer rain, symbolizes the blend of joy and melancholy that often accompanies recollections of the past. The rain, while typically seen as dreary, is portrayed here as a backdrop for some of the most cherished moments, such as the first time his beloved expressed her love.

As the old man walks with his great-grandfather's daughter, the lyrics suggest a continuity of life and love through generations. The fading memories and the way the past slips away highlight the inevitable passage of time, yet the rain acts as a trigger, bringing back the sounds and feelings of those precious days. The song's chorus, with its repetitive "Ah la la la," captures the simplicity and purity of those moments, emphasizing that despite the rain, or perhaps because of it, those times were perfect. The summer rain, therefore, becomes a symbol of enduring love and the beauty found in life's fleeting moments.