Meaning of "Handful Of Rain" by Savatage

"Handful of Rain" explores themes of pain, escapism, and yearning for solace. The opening lines suggest a sense of darkness and despair, with the night growing dark and the soul crying out for relief. The lyrics suggest that the person seeks consolation in alcohol, as washing their women in whiskey and staring up at heaven from the bottom of a glass indicate. The need for insulation from the past and the perspiration of adding up the cost imply a desire to escape from the consequences and struggles of life. The mention of a land beyond the living and the dead suggests a longing for a different existence or a fresh start, and the approaching storm signifies a potential release or catharsis. The presence of an old man constantly smoking and the swirling smoke twisting in the narrator's mind symbolize the haze and confusion caused by seeking escape. The repetition of the phrase "handful of rain" throughout the song reinforces the longing for relief and renewal. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of someone trapped in pain, seeking solace and release from their troubles in various forms, but ultimately feeling lost and yearning for something more.