Where Rainbows Never Die

The Steeldrivers' song 'Where Rainbows Never Die' is a poignant reflection on aging, mortality, and the hope for a peaceful afterlife. The lyrics are delivered from the perspective of an old man who feels the weight of time and the indifference of younger generations. He reminisces about his past vitality and acknowledges the inevitable decline that comes with age. This sense of resignation is palpable as he describes himself as 'an old man now' who 'can't do nothing,' highlighting the physical and social limitations that accompany old age.

The song's chorus introduces a sense of hope and transcendence. The old man speaks of being 'bound for glory' and 'trading his troubles for a crown,' suggesting a belief in a rewarding afterlife. The imagery of crossing 'fields of cotton' and wading through 'muddy waters' evokes a journey through life's hardships, with the promise of emerging 'clean' on the other side. This journey culminates in a place 'west of where the sunsets, where rainbows never die,' a metaphor for an eternal, blissful afterlife free from pain and suffering.

The Steeldrivers' use of vivid, rural imagery and spiritual themes resonates deeply with listeners, particularly those familiar with the struggles and rewards of a life well-lived. The song's blend of melancholy and hope captures the universal human experience of facing mortality while yearning for peace and redemption. The repeated refrain of being 'an old man now' serves as a reminder of the passage of time and the enduring hope for a better existence beyond this life.