Meaning of "The Weather" by Built To Spill

"The Weather" by Built To Spill explores the desire to be with someone special in different weather conditions. The repetition of the line "Do you want it to be outside" suggests a longing for a shared experience. The mention of the cool night with stars gravitating toward the person signifies a romantic setting, while the fog wrapping around them creates a sense of closeness and intimacy. Similarly, the mention of sunshine with clouds taking their places signifies a sense of contentment and happiness. The connection between weather and the presence of this person becomes evident as the lyrics state that wind, snow, rain, and the like do not hold much significance without them. The idea of "talk of the weather" acts as a placeholder for conversation, implying that as long as the person is present, any topic of discussion would be enjoyable.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea that being with this special someone provides a respite from the outside world. The lines "Nobody's hoping for better days, No one knows what to do" convey a sense of despair and confusion, contrasting with the narrator's state of being okay in their secret place with the person, free from external disturbances. The mention of preferring to wait for this person, even if it means passing time alone, emphasizes their importance, as the narrator would rather delay their plans than be without them. This devotion is further emphasized with the repetition of the line "When no one's home and the weather's fine, I'd rather wait for you." It reinforces the idea that even when conditions are favorable, the narrator waits for the person they value, prioritizing their presence above all else.

Overall, the lyrics of "The Weather" by Built To Spill convey a yearning for emotional connection and the significance of a particular person's presence. The varied weather conditions serve as metaphors for different emotional states, and the lyrics explore the idea that being with this person is what truly matters, regardless of external circumstances.