Tender Is the Night
Tellison Lyrics
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The lyrics to Tellison's "Tender Is The Night" reflect the frustrations and tensions within a hospital setting. The opening line, "The Divers were sick of the summer, the summer was locked in the shed," creates a sense of confinement and helplessness. The hospital wards and fortified floors suggest a need for protection or defense, perhaps from external threats or internal strife. The Doctor being tied to his bed may indicate a lack of control or power, as well as physical or mental exhaustion.
The repeated questioning, "Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with now?" intensifies the sense of conflict and division. It prompts the listener to consider the various parties involved and the complexity of their relationships. The line "the old man was out for the doctors, the doctors were out for themselves" shows a breakdown of trust and cooperation, while "the patients and staff had a fight in the bath" suggests a lack of privacy or boundaries. The final reference to the Fire Brigade adds to the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the situation.
Overall, "Tender Is The Night" portrays a world where people are struggling to maintain dignity, control, and compassion in the face of adversity. The use of vivid imagery and repetition creates a sense of urgency and emotional intensity.
Line by Line Meaning
The Divers were sick of the summer, the summer was locked in the shed
The Divers were exhausted with the heat and the sun; it seemed unending, like it was trapped and couldn't escape.
the hospital wards and the fortified floors, and the Doctor was tied to his bed
The hospital felt like a fortress, with its sterile wards and locked doors; even the Doctor felt trapped, unable to leave.
Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with now?
The repetition of this question suggests a sense of conflict and tension, as if there is some battle going on that needs to be acknowledged.
The old man was out for the doctors, the doctors were out for themselves
The old man seemed angry at the medical staff, perhaps feeling mistreated or ignored. Meanwhile, the doctors were focused solely on their own needs and interests.
the patients and staff had a fight in the bath, and the Fire Brigade, oh the Fire Brigade
There was chaos and confusion within the hospital, with even the usually peaceful patients and staff getting into a physical altercation. The Fire Brigade is mentioned, perhaps suggesting that things had gotten out of control and outside help was needed.
Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with? Who are you at war with now?
The repeated question again emphasizes the idea of conflict; it's a call to identify the source of the tension and try to address it.
Contributed by James M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.