About the song
Bob Dylan, the enigmatic bard of American folk music, released his 23rd studio album, Blood on the Tracks, in 1985. This album, a deeply personal exploration of love, loss, and betrayal, is considered by many to be one of his finest works. Among its standout tracks is “When the Night Comes Falling from the Sky,” a haunting ballad that delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and the passage of time.
Released as a single in 1985, “When the Night Comes Falling from the Sky” showcases Dylan’s trademark gravelly vocals and his ability to craft poignant and evocative lyrics. The song opens with a simple, repetitive guitar riff that sets a melancholic tone. Dylan’s voice, filled with a sense of weariness and resignation, paints a vivid picture of a man grappling with the weight of his own mortality.
The lyrics of the song explore the universal themes of aging and the inevitability of death. Dylan sings about the “cold, cruel hand of fate” that is slowly but surely drawing him closer to the end. He reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have. The imagery in the song is both haunting and beautiful, as Dylan describes the night as a “black, velvet curtain” that is descending upon him.
Despite its somber subject matter, “When the Night Comes Falling from the Sky” is a remarkably hopeful song. Dylan suggests that even in the face of death, there is still beauty and meaning to be found in life. He sings about the importance of love and connection, and the power of human spirit to endure hardship.
The song’s arrangement is sparse and minimalist, allowing Dylan’s voice and lyrics to take center stage. The guitar riff, while simple, is incredibly effective at creating a sense of atmosphere and tension. The song’s production is also noteworthy, with a warm, analog sound that complements the timeless quality of the lyrics.
“When the Night Comes Falling from the Sky” is a powerful and moving song that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release. It is a testament to Dylan’s enduring talent as a songwriter and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience. Whether you are a longtime Dylan fan or new to his music, this song is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
You can look out across the fields, see me returning
Smoke is in your eye, you draw a smile
From the fireplace where all my letters to you are burning
You’ve had time to think about it for a while
I walked 200 miles, now look me over
It’s the end of the chase and the moon is high
It don’t matter who loves who
Either you love me or I love you
When the night comes falling from the sky
I can see through your walls and I know you’re hurting
Sorrow covers you up like a cape
Only yesterday I know that you’ve been flirting
With disaster that you somehow managed to escape
Oh, well I can’t provide for you no easy answer
Who are you that I should have to lie?
You’ll know everything, my love
That my love heads up above
When the night comes falling from the sky
I can hear your trembling heart beat like a river
But recently, you’ve got to seen it all
But you’re disappointed now with those who did not deliver
But it was you who set yourself up for a fall
I’ve seen thousands who could have overcome the darkness
For the love of a lousy buck, I’ve watched them die
Stick around, baby, we’re not through
Don’t look for me, I’ll see you
When the night comes falling from the sky
In your teardrops I can see my own reflection
Luck was with me when I crossed the border line
I don’t wanna be a fool that’s starving for affection
I don’t wanna drown in someone else’s wine
For all eternity I think I will remember
That world full of laugh that’s in your eye
You will seek me and you’ll find me in the wasteland of your mind
When the night comes falling from the sky
Well, I gave to you my heart, that’s fair intention
Suffering seem to fit you like a glove
I’m so tired of those who use you for their own pleasure
When my memory is not so short
Well, this time I’m asking for freedom
Freedom from a world that you denied
And you give it to me now, I’ll take it anyhow
When the night comes falling from the sky