Meaning of "Don't Talk to Her at Night" by Marc Cohn

"Don't Talk to Her at Night" by Marc Cohn seems to be a cautionary tale about the consequences of revealing vulnerable emotions or sharing deep secrets with someone during moments of intimacy or weakness. The lyrics warn against disclosing shameful feelings, fears, or confessions to her when she is most vulnerable, like when she is peacefully sleeping or in the midst of a frightening situation. This advice serves as a way to protect both parties from the potential pain or confusion that could result from misguided words spoken in the night. By using imagery of shooting stars falling, howling wolves, and thunder, the song creates an atmosphere of urgency and danger, emphasizing the importance of discretion and self-control in emotional interactions. Overall, the lyrics convey a message about the significance of timing and emotional awareness in communication, urging the listener to be mindful of the impact their words can have on others, especially in moments of darkness and uncertainty.