Meaning of "Crocodile Shoes" by Jimmy Nail

The lyrics of "Crocodile Shoes" convey a sense of loneliness and regret. The repeated mention of wine, beer, and spirits suggests that the narrator is drowning his sorrows and seeking solace in alcohol. The symbolic representation of his love as "crocodile shoes" could suggest that his love is extravagant, like the shoes themselves, but also quite vulnerable, as crocodiles shed tears. The rain falling and the narrator getting soaked through may reflect his emotional state and the weight of his longing. The line "I'm an old man inside a young man's suit" signifies that despite his outward appearance, he feels worn down and weary, possibly due to the loss of the person he loves.

The mention of the waitress looking pretty and the narrator smiling at her while still thinking about the person he longs for reveals the internal struggle he faces in trying to move on or find substitutes. It implies that, despite distractions, this person continues to dominate his thoughts. The narrator expresses a sense of great loss, mentioning not seeing his kids and missing his wife. This suggests that the person he longs for may be his estranged wife or a former partner. He feels remorse for allowing his priorities to slip away and losing touch with his loved ones.

The final repetition of the phrase "crocodile shoes" reinforces the connection between the narrator's longing and the symbolism of the shoes. The fact that the shoes are "crying too" suggests that they also bear the weight of his emotions and serve as a constant reminder of his love. Overall, "Crocodile Shoes" conveys a profound sense of loss, regret, and the enduring power of love.