Meaning of "Day Is Done" by John Prine

The lyrics of "Day Is Done" delve into the complexities of a clandestine love affair. The song explores the excitement and passion experienced by the two individuals involved, emphasizing their shared enjoyment of each other's company and intimate moments. The repeated questioning of whether the other person still likes them reveals a sense of vulnerability and the desire for reassurance in a relationship that must be kept hidden.

The lyrics also touch upon the necessity of secrecy and the fear of getting caught. This is exemplified through the imagery of carving their names on a tree and subsequently burning it down, symbolizing the need to erase any evidence of their love. The act of making love while watching the flame represents the intensity and urgency they feel in the face of their forbidden love, as if they are defying societal norms and expectations.

Despite the passion and connection they share, there is a melancholic undertone present throughout the lyrics. The constant reminder of the impending goodbye and the need to go back home at the end of the day hints at a deep sense of longing and longing for something more. The mention of not being able to express their "sweet things" on the telephone reinforces the idea that their relationship must remain hidden, limited to stolen moments and secret encounters.

Ultimately, the song captures the bittersweet nature of a love that cannot fully flourish due to external circumstances. It explores themes of desire, secrecy, and the complexities of human connections. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and the yearning for a love that is free from constraints and able to be fully expressed.