"Yesterday Is Here" is a song originally written and recorded by Tom Waits. Scarlett Johansson covered this song for her album "Anywhere I Lay My Head" released in 2008. The lyrics describe a longing for material comfort and a better life. The song begins by expressing desires for money, a top hat, a hot meal, and a warm bed. It suggests that these desires can only be fulfilled in the past since "today is gray skies" and "tomorrow is tears." The phrase "you'll have to wait till yesterday's here" indicates a longing for a time or place where these desires could be fulfilled. The narrator then announces their departure to New York City on a train, implying a pursuit of a better life or opportunity. They suggest that those who choose to stay behind and wait for their return will continue to experience the same gray skies and tears. The repetition of the phrase "you'll have to wait till yesterday's here" reinforces the idea that the present and future are bleak, and the only hope lies in the past. The lyrics also touch upon the possibility of finding fulfillment and happiness in the unknown future. They mention going to "where the rainbows end" and how dreams can come true in a place where memories are stored. This suggests that the narrator is optimistic about finding a better future beyond their departure. Overall, "Yesterday Is Here" carries a theme of longing for a better life, the pursuit of dreams, and the belief that happiness and fulfillment can be found in the past or future. Scarlett Johansson's rendition of the song adds her own interpretation and emotional depth, making it a unique and heartfelt rendition.
