Meaning of "Eternal Rains Will Come" by Opeth

The lyrics of "Eternal Rains Will Come" address themes of loss, regret, and the inevitability of mortality. The song begins with the idea of eternal rains, which can symbolize the hardships and trials that life brings. The narrator is encouraged to say goodbye and endure their struggles alone, as they come to terms with the fact that their thoughts and beliefs were mistaken. This could represent a moment of personal growth and a realization that they need to let go of past ideas that are holding them back.

The chorus emphasizes the difficulty of keeping darkness at bay, suggesting that the struggles and challenges faced by the narrator are overwhelming. The flood imagery represents a force that is beyond their control, highlighting their helplessness in the face of impending disaster. The repeated line "there is nothing we can do" reinforces this sense of powerlessness and resignation.

The second verse introduces the idea of time, with the narrator being warned not to wait unless they can wait forever. This suggests that there is no point in holding onto something if it cannot withstand the test of time. The lines "take comfort in what was" could be interpreted as finding solace and acceptance in the memories and experiences of the past, rather than clinging to something that no longer exists.

The final lines of the song express a longing for connection and a yearning for something meaningful. The narrator reaches for the surface, symbolizing their desire to find hope and redemption. The mention of seeing someone in their dreams suggests that they hope to find companionship or solace in the face of their own mortality.

Overall, "Eternal Rains Will Come" explores the themes of facing adversity, accepting the impermanence of life, and the desire for connection in the face of mortality.