Meaning of "Under the Weather" by KT Tunstall

The song "Under the Weather" by KT Tunstall delves into themes of vulnerability, emotional struggles, and the desire for connection. The narrator describes feeling overwhelmed and metaphorically getting soaked to the skin under a national raincloud. This imagery sets the tone for the song, capturing a sense of being weighed down by external circumstances.

The lyrics suggest a feeling of being lost and not knowing where to begin in order to find relief or support. The constant rain symbolizes the unrelenting challenges the narrator faces, making it difficult for them to even hear their own thoughts. This chaos is further emphasized by the need to constantly bail out water, but still feeling like they are on the verge of sinking. The weather becomes a metaphor for the narrator's emotional state.

The chorus emphasizes the connection between the narrator's personal struggles and the state of the world as a whole. Just like the world, they feel "under the weather," meaning both physically affected by the weather and emotionally affected by their circumstances. This highlights a shared experience of hardship and vulnerability.

The second verse shifts focus to another person, possibly a romantic partner, who claims to be a natural person with nothing to hide. However, they still feel imperfections, which cut like a sword in their side. This demonstrates that even when someone may appear strong or unaffected, they too have their own emotional battles to face.

Throughout the song, there is a yearning for companionship and understanding. The narrator expresses the need for someone to hold them when they turn out the light, symbolizing a desire for emotional support and comfort. Although they sometimes feel alone, they find solace in the feeling of "home." This sense of home represents a place of security, familiarity, and acceptance.

Overall, "Under the Weather" explores the struggles of maintaining emotional well-being in challenging circumstances, drawing parallels between personal battles and the state of the world. The lyrics capture the longing for connection and the search for a sense of home amidst vulnerability and adversity.