Meaning of "Waiting For The Day" by Gerry Rafferty

"Waiting For The Day" portrays the emotions and thoughts of someone who is separated from their love, yearning for their presence but feeling trapped in a state of waiting and darkness. The repetition of the phrase "back in town" suggests a sense of familiarity and return, indicating that the narrator may have previously experienced this longing before. They are aware of the passing of time, symbolized by the night falling and the warm wind blowing through the trees.

The lyrics focus on the themes of restlessness, longing, and the power of love to provide light and relief. The narrator is unable to find sleep and seeks solace in a drink to numb their thoughts and stop their mind from dwelling on their distant love. They express a strong desire to be with their beloved but acknowledge the physical distance between them, emphasizing their longing and the discrepancy between their desires and reality.

The narrator then calls upon the "water of life," a metaphorical representation of their beloved, to pour light down on them and bring them out of the darkness they are experiencing. The use of water as a symbol of purification and life reflects the narrator's hope for renewal and the transformative power of love. They believe that their love can open their eyes to new possibilities and ultimately bring relief to the aridity of their current emotional state. The repetition of the phrase "water so sweet" emphasizes the allure and nurturing qualities of their love.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of urban isolation and monotony, with references to shadows, silence, and counting lights on the motorway. This theme reinforces the narrator's longing for something more meaningful and alive in their life, further emphasizing their restlessness and desire for change.

In conclusion, "Waiting For The Day" delves into the deep emotions of yearning, darkness, and the transformative power of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator's restlessness and longing for their distant love, while also expressing hope for a brighter future through the metaphor of water and the guiding star.