About the song
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with country music’s golden era, has gifted us with a trove of songs that resonate deeply with the human experience. Among his most poignant works is “Here Comes That Rainbow Again”. This song, inspired by a scene from John Steinbeck’s iconic novel, The Grapes of Wrath, offers a poignant reflection on the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity.
At its core, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” is a ballad that paints a vivid picture of hardship and resilience. The song’s narrative, set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl era, centers around a simple encounter at a roadside diner. Two impoverished children, their hopes pinned on a penny, are met with a small act of kindness and a lie. Kristofferson’s masterful storytelling transports listeners to a time and place marked by scarcity and uncertainty, yet imbued with a profound sense of human connection.
The song’s title, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again”, is a subtle nod to the enduring hope that accompanies even the darkest of storms. The rainbow, a universal symbol of promise and renewal, serves as a beacon of optimism amidst the bleakness. Through the lens of these two children, Kristofferson invites us to contemplate the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of compassion.
Musically, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” is characterized by Kristofferson’s signature blend of folk and country. His soulful vocals and the song’s understated instrumentation create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrical themes. The melody is both melancholic and uplifting, capturing the bittersweet nature of the human condition.
What makes this song truly special is its universality. While rooted in a specific historical context, the themes of poverty, hunger, and the kindness of strangers resonate with people from all walks of life. “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope to be found.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kris Kristofferson or simply appreciate well-crafted songwriting, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” is a song that will stay with you long after the final note fades. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us with our shared humanity and inspire us to find hope in even the most challenging of circumstances.
Video
Lyrics
The scene was a small roadside caféThe waitress was sweepin’ the floorTwo truck drivers drinkin’ their coffeeAnd two okie kids by the door“How much are them candies?” They asked her“How much have you got?” She replied“We’ve only a penny between us”“Them’s two for a penny, ” she liedAnd the daylight grew heavy with thunderWith the smell of the rain on the windAin’t it just like a human?Here comes that rainbow againOne truck driver called to the waitressAfter the kids went outside“Them candies ain’t two for a penny”“So what’s it to you?” She repliedIn silence they finished their coffeeThen got up and nodded goodbyeShe called, “Hey, you left too much money”“So what’s it to you?” They repliedAnd the daylight was heavy with thunderWith the smell of the rain on the windAin’t it just like a human?Here comes that rainbow again