Closer Every Day

The Doobie Brothers' song "Closer Every Day" delves into the profound and often unsettling theme of mortality. The lyrics open with a reflective moment as the narrator gazes into the mirror, recognizing the passage of time and the inevitable aging process. This introspective start sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the narrator grapples with the reality of getting older and the changes that come with it. The imagery of the sky turning red and a hard rain falling around the narrator's head evokes a sense of impending doom and the relentless march of time.

As the song progresses, the narrator describes the road they are on, which twists and turns, symbolizing the unpredictable and often challenging journey of life. The burning soles of their feet suggest the wear and tear of life's struggles and the physical toll of aging. The mention of the reaper beckoning and pointing the way is a direct reference to death, emphasizing the narrator's awareness of their mortality. The repeated refrain of getting "closer every day" underscores the inevitability of death and the constant approach of the end of life.

The Doobie Brothers, known for their blend of rock, soul, and R&B, use this song to explore a universal human experience. The repetition of the lines "Oh, Lord, fallin' 'round my head" and "Oh, Lord, closer every day" adds a spiritual dimension to the song, suggesting a plea for understanding or comfort in the face of life's ultimate uncertainty. The song's contemplative nature encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the passage of time, making it a poignant and thought-provoking piece.