"Lock All The Gates" by Al Jarreau is a song that tells a story of a woman who waits with anticipation for someone special to come into her life. She resides in snowy fields and lanes, symbolizing a sense of isolation and longing. In the candlelight, there is a sacred altar that shines, representing her devotion and belief in a higher power. The lyrics mention that this woman had someone in her life who cared for her tenderly, depicted by the line "He suckled the young lambs upon his knee." This person provided comfort and solace to the weary, allowing them to find peace and rest. The lyrics further mention that this person had the ability to understand the woman's dreams by reading the stars, yet paradoxically, they were blind. This blindness can be interpreted metaphorically, illustrating that while this person had insight into her dreams and emotions, they could not truly see and understand the reality of her situation. The chorus talks about locking all the gates and bolting the chamber doors, symbolizing a desire to keep the world out and protect the inner sanctity. This could signify a retreat from the outside world, perhaps due to the pain of unrequited love or previous disappointments. The repeated plea for someone to come and lock all the gates and bolt the chamber expresses a longing for isolation and a desire to avoid further heartache. The song implies that the woman has lost hope in finding love and is choosing to protect herself by shutting out the world. Overall, "Lock All The Gates" explores the theme of longing, isolation, and emotional vulnerability. Al Jarreau's soulful voice and the poignant lyrics create a sense of introspection and melancholy in this song.
