Closer

Tommy Ashby's song 'Closer' is a heartfelt exploration of longing and intimacy, set against the backdrop of geographical and emotional distance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator counting the days in California, yearning for a loved one who is far away. This sense of longing is palpable, as the narrator expresses a deep desire to be physically and emotionally closer to their partner. The phrase 'so far past the stage of falling for ya' suggests that their feelings have matured beyond infatuation into something more profound and enduring.

The chorus, with its repeated desire to 'get closer so I can hold ya,' underscores the emotional vulnerability and the breaking down of personal barriers. The metaphor 'you'd find the gold in a coal mine' is particularly striking, implying that the loved one has the unique ability to see the best in the narrator, even in their darkest moments. This line encapsulates the transformative power of love, suggesting that the partner brings out the narrator's hidden worth and potential.

The imagery in the song is rich and evocative, from 'bottling lightning' to 'flowers of the alpines.' These metaphors convey the intensity and beauty of the narrator's feelings. The reference to 'London's sleeping' and 'the nighttime is ours' creates a sense of shared, intimate moments that transcend time and place. The song's gentle, acoustic melody complements its lyrical content, creating an atmosphere of warmth and closeness. Tommy Ashby's 'Closer' is a tender ode to the power of love to bridge distances and bring people together, both physically and emotionally.