Meaning of "After The Rain" by Blue Rodeo

The lyrics of "After The Rain" delve into the emotions of regret, longing, and self-reflection after a failed relationship. The narrator expresses a desire to go back in time and change their actions, symbolized by the line "if I had my way I would never go back." They admit to letting themselves fall and watching the daytimes turn black, suggesting a sense of surrender and darkness that followed the ending of the relationship. The lyrics also touch on the theme of escape, as the narrator imagines themselves as a train that never slows down, running away from the pain of the past. They acknowledge that they are to blame for their actions, feeling ashamed for calling out their lover's name. The repetition of the phrase "after the rain" represents the aftermath of the stormy relationship, where the narrator is left to face the consequences of their decisions.

The song conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia, as the narrator continually has their ex-lover on their mind. They yearn for a reconciliation, hoping that one day their lover will discover the reasons behind their actions. The lyrics highlight the sacrifice made for love, with the line "I've thrown away everything for you," suggesting that the narrator gave up everything for the relationship. However, their dreams seem wasted, and they feel lost as they try to find their way back to the person they left behind. The song's exploration of time and decision-making reflects a sense of urgency and the need for change. The narrator questions whether it is themselves or their lover who needs to change, indicating a desire for growth and resolution. The mention of drinking to "the queen of my soul" signifies a coping mechanism and a plea for emotional release.

Overall, "After The Rain" delves into the complexity of human emotions following the end of a relationship. It explores regret, longing, and self-blame, and encapsulates the complexities of love and loss. The lyrics paint a picture of a person grappling with their past choices and their effects on their present circumstances, ultimately seeking resolution and hoping for a second chance.