Kiss Me

Tom Waits' song 'Kiss Me' delves into the complexities of long-term relationships and the yearning to rekindle the initial spark that often fades over time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that has grown familiar and comfortable, yet the narrator longs for the excitement and mystery that characterized the early days of their romance. The imagery of dying embers and lovers hiding in the shadows sets a melancholic tone, suggesting that the passion in the relationship has waned.

The repeated plea to 'kiss me like a stranger once again' underscores a desire to break free from the monotony and rediscover the thrill of the unknown. This longing is further emphasized by the references to the past, such as the familiar perfume and the thrilling uncertainty of their first encounters. The narrator wants to believe that their love can still be mysterious and even sinful, hinting at a deeper craving for the intensity and unpredictability that new love brings.

Tom Waits' gravelly voice and evocative storytelling style add layers of depth to the song, making it a poignant exploration of love's evolution. The song captures the universal struggle of maintaining passion in a long-term relationship and the bittersweet nostalgia for the days when everything felt new and exciting. Through 'Kiss Me,' Waits invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the ways in which they can reignite the flame of love.