Meaning of "Falling of the Rain" by Billy Joel

The lyrics of "Falling of the Rain" delve into the varying perspectives individuals can have towards life's challenges, using rain as a symbol. The first character, the painter, represents blissful ignorance. He is caught up in his own world, occupied with painting and unaware of the rain. This may reflect a state of denial or escapism, choosing to ignore the unpleasant aspects of reality.

The second character, the girl with braids, symbolizes acceptance and the ability to find beauty in even the small or mundane aspects of life. She happily sings and embraces the rain falling on her face, indicating a positive outlook and resilience in the face of adversity.

In contrast, the third character, the boy on the hill, represents despair and hopelessness. His mind is filled with futile dreams, and he waits for a change that will never come. He is unable to perceive the beauty in the rain, highlighting a sense of pessimism and inability to find meaning or purpose.

The overall message seems to convey the inevitability of change and the passing of time. While the characters' perspectives differ, the rain remains constant and unstoppable. This could be interpreted as a reminder that life's challenges and hardships are inevitable, and it is our attitudes and perspectives that shape our experiences.

The absence of explicit resolution or closure in the lyrics further emphasizes the idea that change is constant and unstoppable. Although the girl with braids and the boy become adults, their experiences with rain have shaped them, and the passing of time has not altered the fundamental nature of rain. Ultimately, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own perspectives and attitudes towards life's challenges and the passage of time.