Within the tapestry of Kris Kristofferson‘s illustrious career lies a captivating and emotionally charged masterpiece, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again.” This poignant song transcends boundaries, resonating with fans of various genres, as it weaves a narrative of human struggle, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. Through detailed lyrics and evocative storytelling, Kristofferson’s song takes us on a profound journey, capturing the hearts of his devoted fans.
A Humble Café and Innocent Souls
The song unfolds in a small roadside café, where a diligent waitress sweeps the floor. Two truck drivers find solace in their coffee, while two children from Oklahoma, referred to as “Okie kids,” linger near the door. Seeking a sweet treat, the children inquire about the price of candies. Resourceful yet compassionate, the waitress lies about the cost, stating they are “two for a penny” despite knowing it’s beyond their means.
The Gathering Storm and the Rainbow’s Arrival
As the scene unfolds, the atmosphere grows heavy with the scent of impending rain and the rumble of thunder. The imminent storm serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges and hardships. Yet, like a beacon of hope, a rainbow appears in the distance, embodying the resilience and redemption that await those who persevere.
Reflections on Generosity and Indifference
Within this verse, the focus shifts to one of the truck drivers who engages the waitress in conversation after the children leave. He confronts her, revealing that he knows the candies were not truly “two for a penny.” The exchange underscores the themes of honesty, moral ambiguity, and the complexity of human interactions.
Moments of Contemplation and Farewell
In a moment of contemplative silence, the truck drivers finish their coffee and bid the waitress goodbye. However, as they depart, she calls out to them, claiming they left behind an excess of money. Their response, “So what’s it to you?” reveals a sense of detachment, raising questions about human indifference and the underlying struggles that exist beyond the surface.
Resilience and the Cycle of Life
The closing chorus encapsulates the profound essence of the song, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the resilience of the human spirit. The storm subsides, the rainbow reemerges, and once again, the cycle repeats itself. Through these lyrics, Kristofferson suggests that despite life’s challenges, there is always a glimmer of hope, and the rainbow serves as a timeless symbol of redemption and renewal.
A Timeless Tale of Hope and Redemption
“Here Comes That Rainbow Again” stands as a testament to Kris Kristofferson’s mastery in crafting deeply moving narratives through his music. The song’s intricate lyrics and symbolic imagery take listeners on a profound journey, exploring the themes of struggle, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. Kristofferson’s ability to capture the intricacies of the human experience has resonated with fans throughout generations. “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” remains an indelible and cherished anthem, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, hope will always prevail, and rainbows will continue to grace our lives.
Artist: Kris Kristofferson
Album: The Winning Hand
Released: 1982
Lyrics
The scene was a small roadside café
The waitress was sweepin’ the floor
Two truck drivers drinkin’ their coffee
And two okie kids by the door
“How much are them candies?” They asked her
“How much have you got?” She replied
“We’ve only a penny between us”
“Them’s two for a penny, ” she lied
And the daylight grew heavy with thunder
With the smell of the rain on the wind
Ain’t it just like a human?
Here comes that rainbow again
One truck driver called to the waitress
After the kids went outside
“Them candies ain’t two for a penny”
“So what’s it to you?” She replied
In silence they finished their coffee
Then got up and nodded goodbye
She called, “Hey, you left too much money”
“So what’s it to you?” They replied
And the daylight was heavy with thunder
With the smell of the rain on the wind
Ain’t it just like a human?
Here comes that rainbow again
