A Walk In the Rain

Song Meaning

Michael Franks' "What Do I Have to Do? (Billy the Fish Mix, Pt. II)" isn't just a breezy, sophisticated stroll; it's a wistful reckoning with lost love and the quiet ache of regret. The song paints a picture of a man who once reveled in the vibrant tapestry of Parisian life – Renoir-esque scenes, late-night cafes, the effervescent swing of Grappelli and Django. These images aren't merely decorative; they represent a life once brimming with joy and connection, a joie de vivre now dimmed by a profound sense of longing. The repeated line, "But lately I seem to be more inclined for a walk in the rain," acts as a melancholic counterpoint, suggesting a shift from vibrant social engagement to solitary contemplation. The rain, a classic symbol of sorrow and cleansing, becomes his preferred company, a space for reflection on what has been lost. The core of the song meaning lies in the remembered walks in the rain with a former lover. These weren't just mundane strolls; they were moments of shared laughter and intimacy, etched vividly in his memory. The lyric, "We laughed at the weather, out walking without umbrellas," encapsulates a carefree abandon, a willingness to embrace life's imperfections together. The image of her face during these walks is particularly potent, suggesting a deep emotional connection that transcends mere romance. This memory serves as both a source of comfort and a painful reminder of what's been lost. The final verse introduces a note of vulnerability and self-awareness. He admits, "You know I was crazy about you," acknowledging the depth of his feelings. The line, "Some sadness caused me to unwind," hints at an internal struggle, a personal failing that contributed to the relationship's demise. The song doesn't offer a specific explanation for this "sadness," leaving it open to interpretation – perhaps it was insecurity, fear of commitment, or some other internal conflict. The concluding line, "Maybe I will meet you (if fate is kind) on a walk in the rain," expresses a fragile hope for reconciliation, a yearning to recapture the lost intimacy and perhaps, find solace in the shared experience of weathering the storm together.