The lyrics of "Strange Weather" by Tom Waits explore the universal theme of strangers connecting over mundane topics like the weather. Despite the world changing and falling apart, the conversation remains the same, highlighting the transient nature of relationships and human interactions.

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Meaning of "Strange Weather" by Tom Waits


"Strange Weather" delves into the idea of human connection and the common ground we find with strangers, often through discussing the weather. Tom Waits uses the weather as a metaphor for the unpredictability and changes in life. The repetition of strangers talking about the weather all over the world emphasizes the shared experiences we have as humans, despite our differences. The image of London bridges falling down and the sky falling symbolize the collapse of structures and the inevitable end of things, but amidst it all, the mundane conversations about weather remain constant. The reference to never buying umbrellas because there's always one around suggests a sense of resilience and adaptability in facing life's challenges. The lyrics imply that relationships and interactions, like the weather, are transient and fleeting, but they still hold significance in the grand scheme of things. Overall, "Strange Weather" conveys a sense of universality in human experiences and the connections we make with others.