Meaning of "That Close To You" by John Prine

The lyrics of "That Close To You" by John Prine seem to capture the essence of longing for emotional intimacy. The imagery of lightning, thunder, and a cloudy day down at the zoo provides a sense of intensity and unpredictability when it comes to emotions. The feeling of drowning but never going under suggests a struggle to maintain a connection with someone who may be emotionally distant. The desire to make someone smile, despite feeling like a "one armed child with a hole in its shoe," reflects a sense of inadequacy and yearning for approval. The repetition of "That close to you" indicates a strong desire for closeness and connection, even when it might feel out of reach. The plea to be closer, to find something with a nicer view, and the mention of lovers, mothers, brothers, and sorrow all point to a longing for meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability, longing, and a deep need for connection in the midst of emotional turbulence and uncertainty.