John Hiatt's song "It'll Come To You" explores themes of reflection, regret, and the consequences of past actions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of different moments and experiences from the narrator's past, prompting the listener to reflect on their own life choices. The song begins by referencing a girl the narrator was involved with in 1972, indicating there may have been something questionable or secretive about their relationship. The mention of "practicing voodoo" implies a sense of mystery and darkness surrounding their connection. The chorus serves as a reminder that past actions have a way of catching up with us. It suggests that the truth or consequences that one may have tried to bury will eventually reveal themselves, possibly in the middle of the night when one is alone and vulnerable. The second verse addresses a business partner who was taken advantage of financially. The narrator admits to squandering the money on indulgences like alcohol, women, and rent, without making any effort to repay the debt. This highlights a lack of responsibility and accountability. The following lines depict a haunting scene where the narrator's past mistakes come back to haunt him in his sleep. The imagery of people surrounding him, asking for promises he couldn't keep, suggests a sense of guilt and the weight of unfulfilled obligations. The mention of "foolish pride" hints at the narrator's attempts to compensate for feelings of emptiness by inflating his own self-importance. The final verse juxtaposes the narrator's current contented life – being married with a family – with the lingering echoes of past decisions. The sound of rattling bones symbolizes the unresolved and unsettling aspects of the past that continue to affect the present. The line about the "spooky equation" suggests that even though the narrator has moved on, there are still unknown consequences and uncertainties awaiting him. Overall, "It'll Come To You" is a cautionary tale about the importance of facing one's past, taking responsibility for one's actions, and acknowledging the impact they can have on the present and future. It serves as a reminder that hidden truths and unresolved issues have a way of resurfacing, no matter how hard one tries to bury them.
