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Introduction
A Rainbow of Hope: The Story Behind “Here Comes That Rainbow Again”
Kris Kristofferson, a towering figure in the world of country music, penned “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” in the late 1970s. This poignant ballad, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, would become a cornerstone of his repertoire, resonating with audiences worldwide.
The song’s inspiration can be traced to a scene in John Steinbeck’s classic novel, The Grapes of Wrath. In the book, two young children, struggling through the Dust Bowl era, are unable to afford candy. A kind-hearted waitress, touched by their plight, allows them to purchase the sweets. This act of compassion, amidst the backdrop of hardship and despair, deeply moved Kristofferson. He saw in it a universal theme: the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.
Kristofferson’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the scene, capturing the children’s innocence and the waitress’s generosity. The song’s refrain, “Here comes that rainbow again,” serves as a metaphor for the fleeting moments of joy and kindness that can brighten even the darkest of times.
The song’s musical arrangement is equally evocative. Kristofferson’s soulful vocals, combined with the gentle strumming of his acoustic guitar, create a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing the lyrics to take center stage and convey the song’s emotional depth.
“Here Comes That Rainbow Again” has endured as a timeless classic, touching the hearts of listeners across generations. Its message of hope, compassion, and the enduring power of the human spirit continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a testament to Kristofferson’s songwriting genius and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience.
Video
Lyrics
The scene was a small roadside café
The waitress was sweepin’ the floor
Two truck drivers drinkin’ their coffee
And 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 lied
And the daylight grew heavy with thunder
With the smell of the rain on the wind
Ain’t it just like a human?
Here comes that rainbow again
One truck driver called to the waitress
After the kids went outside
“Them candies ain’t two for a penny”
“So what’s it to you?” She replied
In silence they finished their coffee
Then got up and nodded goodbye
She called, “Hey, you left too much money”
“So what’s it to you?” They replied
And the daylight was heavy with thunder
With the smell of the rain on the wind
Ain’t it just like a human?
Here comes that rainbow again…