The speaker compares leaving their lover to leaving Tennessee, suggesting that love is mainly memories. They envision their lover waltzing on air at the Brand New Tennessee Waltz, contemplating the bittersweet nature of leaving and the uncertainty of who will be there.

Meaning of "The Brand New Tennessee Waltz" by Jesse Winchester

"The Brand New Tennessee Waltz" by Jesse Winchester delves into the complexities of love, memory, and departure. The speaker reflects on the similarities between leaving their lover and leaving Tennessee, emphasizing the idea that love is mainly comprised of memories. The reference to the Brand New Tennessee Waltz serves as a metaphor for the constant cycle of leaving and arriving, with the uncertainty of who will be present at each new stage. The lyrics capture the wistful and contemplative nature of transition, highlighting the emotional weight of letting go and moving on. Overall, the song explores the poignant intersection of love, memory, and the inevitability of change.