Rain

Todd Rundgren's song 'Rain' delves into the human tendency to avoid discomfort and seek refuge in comfort, using weather as a metaphor for life's challenges and joys. The lyrics begin by highlighting how people react to rain by running and hiding, suggesting that they might as well be dead if they cannot face the rain. This metaphor extends to how people seek shade and comfort when the sun shines, sipping lemonade and avoiding the harshness of the sun. Rundgren seems to be critiquing this avoidance of life's difficulties and the preference for comfort over growth.

The chorus, 'Rain, I don't mind / Shine, the weather's fine,' reflects a more accepting and balanced perspective. Rundgren suggests that both rain and shine are part of life, and neither should be avoided or overly cherished. This acceptance is further emphasized in the lines, 'I can show you that when it starts to rain / Everything's the same,' indicating that external circumstances should not dictate one's inner state. The phrase 'It's just a state of mind' reinforces the idea that our reactions to life's ups and downs are largely influenced by our mindset.

The song takes a deeper turn with the lines, 'I know what it's like to be dead / I know what it is to be sad.' These lines suggest a profound understanding of life's darker moments, possibly hinting at personal experiences of loss or depression. By juxtaposing these feelings with the earlier acceptance of rain and shine, Rundgren seems to advocate for a holistic acceptance of all life experiences, both good and bad. This message encourages listeners to embrace life's full spectrum, rather than selectively engaging with only the pleasant aspects.