Introduction
“Here Comes That Rainbow Again” by Kris Kristofferson is a poignant song that reflects on kindness, empathy, and the simplicity of human connections. Released in 1982 on Kristofferson’s album The Winning Hand, the song draws inspiration from a scene in John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath. The novel, set during the Great Depression, chronicles the struggles of a poor family of tenant farmers as they travel across the United States in search of a better life. In the song, Kristofferson beautifully captures the essence of a particular scene that takes place in a roadside diner.
The song tells the story of a simple but meaningful interaction between a truck driver, a waitress, and two young kids who enter a diner with little money. When the kids try to buy candy with only a penny, the waitress sympathetically lowers the price, and the trucker, observing their plight, quietly pays for their treat. The act of kindness is subtle, understated, and yet speaks volumes about human nature, highlighting moments of generosity amidst the harshness of life. The truck driver’s gesture and the waitress’s understanding reflect the compassion that can shine through even in the toughest times, symbolized in the song by the arrival of a rainbow.
Kris Kristofferson, known for his storytelling prowess and socially conscious songwriting, often drew from literature and life experiences. With “Here Comes That Rainbow Again,” he offers a musical meditation on Steinbeck’s themes of struggle, poverty, and grace. By choosing to focus on this particular scene, Kristofferson elevates a small moment of generosity into a broader message about the impact of seemingly minor acts of kindness.
Though the song did not become a major commercial hit, it resonated with listeners who appreciated Kristofferson’s ability to translate literature into a lyrical format, infusing the song with a sense of timelessness. The lyrics, while simple, are emotionally rich, embodying the power of storytelling in music. The combination of Kristofferson’s expressive voice and the poignant narrative create a song that feels more like a lived experience than just a story being told.
In essence, “Here Comes That Rainbow Again” remains a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity, finding hope and beauty in moments of shared kindness against a backdrop of hardship. It stands as a reminder that, much like a rainbow appearing after a storm, acts of compassion can bring light to the darkest of times.