Each Coming Night

Iron & Wine's song 'Each Coming Night' is a poignant exploration of love, memory, and the inevitable passage of time. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of longing and reflection, as the narrator contemplates what will be said about them after they are gone. The recurring question, 'Will you say when I'm gone away,' underscores a deep desire for their love and life to be remembered and cherished even in their absence.

The song's imagery is rich and evocative, painting a picture of intimate moments shared in 'rooms unfamiliar' and the strength found in 'sturdy arms.' These lines suggest a relationship that has weathered various challenges and changes, yet remains deeply connected. The mention of 'cradle then live without' hints at the cycles of life and loss, emphasizing the transient nature of human existence and the enduring impact of love.

The final verse introduces a more metaphysical element, with the line 'light strikes a deal with each coming night.' This metaphor suggests a balance between presence and absence, light and darkness, life and death. It implies that even as the physical presence fades, the essence of the person lingers on, much like the light that persists even as night falls. This delicate interplay between memory and reality captures the essence of the song, making it a touching meditation on the enduring power of love and the ways in which we are remembered.