The Meaning Behind The Song: Ruby’s Arms by Tom Waits

The Meaning Behind The Song: Ruby’s Arms by Tom Waits

A romantic ballad, “Ruby’s Arms” is the closing track of Tom Waits’ album Heartattack and Vine, wrapping up the album on a tender note. The song, with its minimalistic arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, has resonated with listeners for decades.

The song went on to inspire the Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, who changed some events in the climax of his Booker Prize-winning novel The Remains of the Day. Ishiguro has spoken about the influence of the song on his writing, commenting on the message of the song:

“Ruby’s Arms” is a ballad about a soldier leaving his lover sleeping in the early hours to go away on a train. Nothing unusual in that. But the song is sung in the voice of a rough American hobo type utterly unaccustomed to wearing his emotions on his sleeve. And there comes a moment when the singer declares his heart is breaking, that’s almost unbearably moving because of the tension between the sentiment itself and the huge resistance that’s obviously been overcome to utter it. Waits sings the line with cathartic magnificence, and you feel a lifetime of tough-guy stoicism crumbling in the face of overwhelming sadness.

“Ruby’s Arms” is a poignant tale of departure and heartbreak. The protagonist of the song is leaving behind everything associated with his past relationship, focusing solely on his essential belongings – his railroad boots and his leather jacket. The lyrics paint a picture of separation, capturing the emotional turmoil of saying goodbye to Ruby’s arms. The morning light washes the face of the person left behind, as everything turns blue, symbolic of their sadness and longing. The protagonist acknowledges that another soldier will come into Ruby’s life, promising that by Christmas time, there will be someone else to hold her.

The bridge of the song adds another layer of emotional complexity. The protagonist takes only the scarf off Ruby’s clothesline and hurries past her chest of drawers and broken wind chimes. These actions imply a sense of urgency and a need to move on, but there is still a lingering attachment that is hard to let go.

The final verse captures the protagonist navigating through the darkened hall, emphasizing the feeling of loss and uncertainty. The reference to hobos at the freight yards keeping their fires burning evokes a transient lifestyle, adding to the sense of the protagonist’s departure. The plea for someone to put him on a train highlights the desperation and longing for escape from the pain of leaving Ruby behind. The song ends with the heartbreaking realization that the protagonist will never kiss Ruby’s lips again or break her heart.

Personally, “Ruby’s Arms” has always evoked a sense of longing and melancholy. The rawness of Tom Waits’ vocals combined with the intimate lyrics creates a powerful emotional connection. The song reminds me of instances in my own life where I had to say goodbye to loved ones, leaving behind a part of myself in the process. It captures the bittersweet nature of farewells and the pain of letting go.

In conclusion, “Ruby’s Arms” is a beautifully crafted ballad that delves into the complexities of leaving and heartbreak. Tom Waits’ poignant lyrics and emotional delivery have made it a timeless piece of music that resonates with listeners. Whether you relate to the experience of the protagonist or draw personal connections to your own life, the song leaves a lasting impression of love and loss.