Meaning of "New Coat Of Paint" by Tom Waits

"New Coat of Paint" by Tom Waits delves into themes of transformation, love, and finding happiness in the midst of bleakness. The lyrics paint a picture of a lonesome and worn-out town, a metaphor for a stagnant and unfulfilling existence. The narrator suggests that the way to remedy this desolation is by putting a new coat of paint on the town, symbolizing a fresh start and an infusion of life into a weary environment. It also implies the need for personal change and revitalization.

The song touches on the importance of love and connection as means to break free from the monotony of everyday life. The line "All your scribbled love dreams are lost or thrown away" suggests that the narrator and their partner have let go of their dreams or have felt a loss of passion and excitement. In the midst of a busy and overwhelming day, they long for a transfusion of love, emphasizing the importance of re-igniting their relationship and injecting it with the vitality it desperately needs. The metaphor of shooting love full of wine conveys the notion of indulging in intoxicating experiences and taking risks to find happiness and fulfillment.

Furthermore, the lyrics employ the imagery of fishing as a metaphor for seeking adventure and fun. "Fishin' for a good time starts with throwin' in your line" implies that in order to find joy and excitement in life, one must be willing to take the first step and put themselves out there. It encourages the listeners to embrace new experiences and opportunities rather than passively waiting for them to come.

Overall, "New Coat of Paint" encourages a shift in perspective, urging individuals to seek change, revive their relationships, and pursue adventure to find happiness in even the bleakest of circumstances.