The lyrics tell a story of being lost on an abandoned road on a foggy night with no signs of help in sight. The narrator feels misled and confused, wondering if a certain building is a motel or a lodge. The situation is described as aimless and uncertain, with a sense of being stranded and helpless.

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Meaning of "On A Foggy Night" by Tom Waits


The song "On A Foggy Night" by Tom Waits captures the feeling of being lost and disoriented, both physically and metaphorically. The fog represents confusion and uncertainty in life, while the abandoned road symbolizes a journey that lacks direction or purpose. The imagery of a bloodshot moon and a powder blue sky creates a sense of foreboding and isolation, mirroring the narrator's internal state of mind. The mention of a sweepstakes ticket and a Broadway arcade alludes to the unpredictability of life and the inherent risks involved. The narrator's personality being gripped by vice and the feeling of rambling and gambling suggest a lack of control and agency in the face of life's challenges. Overall, the lyrics reflect a sense of vulnerability, confusion, and helplessness in the face of the unknown.