The lyrics of "Lullaby" by Tom Waits describe a melancholic scene where a child is reassured by their caregiver that nothing is permanent, including life itself, and that they should not fear or mourn the uncertainties that come with it. The song conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance of the impermanence of life and the futility of holding onto possessions and relationships.

Meaning of "Lullaby" by Tom Waits

The lyrics of "Lullaby" by Tom Waits paint a bleak yet comforting picture of the transient nature of life. The repetition of the lines "If I die before I wake, don't you cry; don't you weep" conveys a sense of fatalism and acceptance of mortality, urging the listener to not mourn the inevitable passing of life. The mention of the sun being red and the moon being cracked symbolizes a world that is in disarray and filled with brokenness, suggesting that nothing is as it should be. The caregiver's gentle lullaby serves as a reminder to the child that possessions and relationships are fleeting and that they should find solace in their dreams instead. Overall, the song captures the bittersweet reality of life's impermanence and the importance of finding peace and beauty amidst the chaos.