Strange Weather
Tom Waits · Big Time
London bridges falling down
Stranger woman tries to save
More than a man who tries to drown.
And it's the rain that they predicted
It's the forecast every time
The rose has died because we picked it
I believe that brandy's mine,
And all over the world
Strangers talk only about the weather.
All over the world it's the same
It's the same.
And the world is getting flatter
And the sky is falling down
Oh and nothing is the matter
For I never cry in town
And a love like ours my dear
Is best measured when it's down
And I never buy umbrellas
Cause there's always one around,
And all over the world
Strangers talk only about the weather
All over the world it's the same
It's the same.
And you know that it's beginning
And you know that it's the end
Once again we are strangers
As the fog goes rolling in
And all over the world
Strangers talk only about the weather
All over the world it's the same
It's the same.
About Strange Weather
Tom Waits' "Strange Weather" stands as a haunting centerpiece on the 1981 album *Big Time*, embodying the gritty, noir-infused storytelling that defined his early career. The track captures the atmospheric tension of urban decay and the unpredictability of life in the American South, utilizing Waits' signature vocal delivery to evoke a sense of impending storm. As part of his broader discography, the song reflects the raw, unpolished aesthetic of his work during this pivotal era, blending blues, jazz, and rock elements into a cohesive narrative of isolation. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to immerse listeners in a specific mood, characteristic of Waits' ability to transform mundane observations into profound musical experiences. The recording remains a testament to his influence on alternative and roots music, showcasing a songwriting style that prioritizes emotional truth over conventional polish.