"Thirty Years Of Tears" is a song by John Hiatt that explores themes of longing, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics describe a sense of weariness and a desire for a place of solace and peace where one can confront and process deep emotions. The song starts with the narrator searching for a place to rest their head and gather their thoughts away from the overwhelming violence and chaos of the world. They question if such a place exists where feelings haven't been dulled by constant exposure to negativity. The chorus reveals that the tears the narrator carries are from a long time ago, suggesting that they have been suppressing their emotions for decades. They express a need to finally release these pent-up emotions and cry out the pain that has accumulated over thirty years or so. The second verse introduces a romantic aspect to the song. The narrator asks their beloved where they have been throughout their lifetime, implying that they have been longing for love and companionship. They recount how they have gone through various experiences, facing challenges and surviving with the help of others. The following verses emphasize the narrator's history of shedding tears and experiencing sadness. They explain that they have cried so much in the past that it almost drowned them, but the tears they carry now are different. These tears are specifically connected to the weight of the years that have passed and the emotions that have remained unresolved. The song concludes with the narrator being alone in a place where they have ample time to reflect on their past and listen to their own heartbeat. They acknowledge that they have carried these tears from a long time ago and express the need to finally release them. Overall, "Thirty Years Of Tears" dives deep into the emotions and experiences of the narrator's life. It addresses the need to confront and process pent-up emotions that have remained unresolved for a significant period. The song captures a sense of longing, weariness, and a desire for emotional release and healing.
