Meaning of "Semi Suite" by Tom Waits

The lyrics of "Semi Suite" explore themes of longing, unfulfilled promises, and the complex dynamics of a troubled relationship. The woman in the song is trapped in a cycle of disappointment, as her partner repeatedly leaves for long stretches of time and makes empty promises of returning. She feels a mixture of resentment and affection towards him, which is evident in lines like "You wish you had a dollar for every time he hollered that he's leaving and he's never coming back." She knows that he is not reliable or faithful, but she cannot find the courage to leave him.

The truck driver represents a sense of freedom and escapism for the woman. She acknowledges that the road is where he feels most alive and can collect his thoughts. Yet, she also feels trapped by his absence and the constant packing and unpacking. The steam heat dripping off the walls suggests the suffocating and stagnant nature of their relationship when he is gone.

The narrator's loyalty and dedication to her partner are apparent in her willingness to always be there when he calls. She lingers by the window, hoping that he will change and choose her over his life on the road. She believes she is the only one who truly understands him and his complicated soul. Despite the pain and uncertainty, she holds onto the belief that their love is special and worth fighting for.

Overall, "Semi Suite" paints a vivid picture of a strained relationship in which one partner is always on the move and the other is left behind. It explores the complexities of love, longing, and the difficulty of leaving a toxic situation.