Meaning of "Rocket Man" by Pearls Before Swine

"Rocket Man" delves into themes of distance, loneliness, and the pursuit of the unknown. The father, as the rocket man, represents a desire for exploration and discovery, always reaching for something beyond reach. However, this pursuit leaves the mother and child feeling isolated and forgotten, with their only solace being the rain that washes away their sorrow. The sun consuming the father symbolizes the danger and sacrifice that come with reaching for the stars, ultimately leading to a sense of loss and separation within the family. The repeated refrain of only going out when it rains hints at a desire to escape reality and find comfort in solitude, highlighting the emotional complexity of dealing with the absence of a loved one who is always seeking something beyond.