Blue Stranger

Paul Kelly's 'Blue Stranger' is a poignant exploration of loneliness and the human desire for connection. The song opens with the narrator addressing a 'blue stranger,' someone who appears to be lost in their own sorrow, sitting alone with a drink. This imagery sets the stage for a meeting between two individuals who are both experiencing a sense of isolation. The narrator offers to buy a round of drinks, suggesting a shared understanding of their mutual loneliness. This gesture is not just an act of kindness but a bridge to potential companionship, highlighting the universal need for human connection.

As the song progresses, Kelly delves deeper into the theme of strangers becoming lovers. He notes that 'all lovers were strangers once,' emphasizing that every romantic relationship begins with two people who are initially unknown to each other. This idea is reinforced through the repeated lines about strangers falling in love every day and night. The uncertainty and tentative nature of new relationships are captured in phrases like 'a little unsure of their way' and 'trying to get the words right.' These lines reflect the vulnerability and hope that come with opening up to someone new.

The recurring phrase 'Hello blue stranger' serves as both a greeting and a metaphor for the possibility of new beginnings. By the end of the song, the narrator's repeated attempts to connect with the 'blue stranger' suggest a persistent hope that their shared loneliness can transform into something meaningful. Paul Kelly's lyrical storytelling, combined with his emotive delivery, makes 'Blue Stranger' a touching reminder that even in our darkest moments, the potential for connection and love is always present.