Rain

Norah Jones' song 'Rain' is a poignant exploration of emotional turmoil and the struggle to cope with deep-seated pain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a heart weighed down by sorrow, symbolized by the relentless rain. The opening lines describe the difficulty of connecting with someone whose heart is hardened, suggesting a relationship strained by emotional barriers. The imagery of 'stone and steel walls' conveys a sense of impenetrable defenses, making it clear that the protagonist feels trapped and unable to break through to the other person.

The recurring motif of rain serves as a powerful metaphor for the protagonist's tears and overwhelming sadness. The 'rows and rows of big dark clouds' represent the persistent and heavy nature of their grief. This rain is not just a passing shower but a torrential downpour that mirrors the intensity of their emotional state. The shroud mentioned in the lyrics symbolizes a veil of despair that the protagonist is struggling to lift, indicating a sense of suffocation and hopelessness.

Jones also touches on the theme of resignation and the difficulty of knowing when to let go. The lines 'Two things you want will just never be right' reflect the internal conflict of wanting something that may never be attainable. The protagonist's plea for 'another chance to live' highlights a desire for renewal and a break from the cycle of pain. Despite the relentless rain, there is a glimmer of resilience as the protagonist continues to hold on, suggesting an underlying hope for eventual healing and clarity.