"December Rains" by John Cale is a song that explores various themes such as the impact of technology, political unrest, and personal emotions. The lyrics depict a sense of chaos and unease in society, with references to online pornography, global conflicts, and the loss of privacy. The song begins by mentioning "soft porn rioting" being available online. This could be seen as a metaphor for the overwhelming presence of explicit content or sensationalism on the internet. It suggests that society is becoming desensitized and increasingly consumed by provocative and divisive media. The line "There's gonna be heel to pay" implies that there will be consequences for society's actions and choices. It could mean that society will have to face the negative repercussions of indulging in such behaviors or attitudes. The reference to "Somewhere south of meridian 5" indicates a general location but does not specify a particular place. This could be interpreted as representing any troubled region or conflict zone in the world where people are looking for a fresh start or a chance to rebuild. "December, December, December rains" is repeated throughout the song as a refrain. It could symbolize the cleansing or purifying effect of rain, offering hope and renewal amidst the turmoil and chaos depicted in the rest of the lyrics. "Condition Red the planet says" suggests a state of high alert or danger. It emphasizes the overwhelming grief and distress that humanity is experiencing. The following line, "We're up to our knees in grief," further emphasizes the extent of this collective sorrow. The mention of Samarkand, a historic city in Uzbekistan, represents a place of refuge. It signifies the need for someone to calm or pacify the chaos and provide guidance in troubled times. The lyrics also touch upon personal relationships and emotions, with lines like "With your knife in my gut" and "Whenever I get to feeling good, you're always on my mind." These lines express the complexity of a troubled relationship where one person's actions or words constantly disrupt peace and contentment. The song concludes with the line, "Some December rain would be enough for tonight." This could be interpreted as a plea for a temporary respite from the overwhelming challenges and difficulties faced in life. Overall, "December Rains" reflects on the tumultuous state of the world, the impacts of technology and politics, and the personal struggles and desires for solace in the face of chaos.
