Tonight

Sibylle Baier's song "Tonight" captures a poignant moment of unexpected solace and connection. The lyrics describe the narrator coming home from work, feeling hurt and weary, only to find an unforeseen visitor in her kitchen. This visitor, who is not explicitly identified, brings a sense of warmth and familiarity, symbolized by the simple act of buttering bread and the cat's contentment on his knee. This scene sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the comfort found in unexpected places and people.

As the evening progresses, the visitor's presence becomes even more significant. He passes the guitar and shares a moment of vulnerability, mentioning that he has just had an accident with his car. This exchange of personal troubles leads to a deeper connection, marked by the phrase "We had change of the moon," suggesting a shift in emotional or spiritual states. The moon, often a symbol of change and cycles, underscores the transformative nature of their interaction.

The song reaches its emotional peak when the visitor, now settled in an easy chair, inquires about the narrator's sorrow. His understanding and gentle support allow her to open up and share her tears until dawn. This act of listening and empathy is profoundly healing, and the narrator dedicates the song to him, acknowledging the impact of this serendipitous encounter. The repetition of the phrase "Tonight, when I came home from work" throughout the song emphasizes the significance of this particular evening, turning an ordinary night into a memorable and transformative experience.