Meaning of "When Love Comes to Town" by B.B. King

The lyrics of "When Love Comes to Town" convey a deep sense of personal growth and redemption through the transformative power of love. The opening lines of the song set the stage for a narrative of being lost and drowning before love came to the rescue. This represents a metaphorical understanding of how love can revive and uplift a person's life, pulling them out of despair. The mention of being a fighter and standing accused of the things said illustrates the internal conflicts and shortcomings that have plagued the narrator. However, the arrival of love is described as a catalyst for change, symbolized by the desire to jump on a train or catch a flame. This showcases the willingness to embrace and pursue love when it presents itself.

The narrator reminisces about past relationships, invoking imagery of making love under a red sunset. However, the promises made during these moments are described as being soon forgotten. This highlights the imperfection and mistakes that have characterized the narrator's actions in the past. The depiction of leaving someone standing on their wedding day highlights the consequences of the narrator's actions and serves as a reminder of their past faults. This juxtaposition with the transformative power of love emphasizes the personal growth and ability to change that love can inspire.

The narrator describes a pivotal moment when they enter a juke joint and hear a guitar scream. This signifies a moment of revelation and awakening through music, where the notes turning blue symbolize a feeling of melancholy and introspection. The transformative power of love is again expressed as the music played and the narrator's life turned around. This suggests that love not only redeems the past but also offers a way to move forward and find a new direction in life.

The climax of the song takes a surprising turn as the narrator claims to have been present during the crucifixion of Jesus. This biblical allusion adds a deeper layer of meaning to the lyrics, symbolizing the universality and transcendence of love. By mentioning that they held the scabbard and threw the dice, the narrator connects themselves to the dramatic events of Jesus' crucifixion. However, the emphasis on witnessing love conquer the great divide suggests that love is a force capable of surpassing all boundaries and divisions, even in the face of unimaginable pain and suffering.

The lyrics of "When Love Comes to Town" ultimately convey a hopeful and transformative message. They inspire the listener to reflect on their own past mistakes and recognize the potential for personal growth and redemption through the power of love. It serves as a reminder that love has the ability to heal, inspire, and overcome even the greatest challenges.