Moths to Flame: Whispers of a Forgotten Life | Year Of The Cat | Al Stewart

Al Stewart's 1975 song "Year of the Cat" is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners for decades. The song tells the story of a mysterious woman who appears and disappears from a man's life, leaving him with more questions than answers.

The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and poetic metaphors, painting a picture of a world where nothing is as it seems. The opening lines, "It was the year of the cat / And the whispers in her ear / Had grown to a scream," set the tone for the rest of the song, hinting at a sense of turmoil and uncertainty.

Throughout the song, Stewart weaves together themes of love, loss, and longing, with the enigmatic woman serving as a constant presence. Her character is shrouded in mystery, leaving the listener wondering about her true intentions and motivations. The song's narrator is drawn to her like a moth to flame, despite the danger and uncertainty she represents.

The song's most famous line, "The wind it howls like a restless spirit / I believe it's cold outside," captures the sense of melancholy and isolation that pervades the song. Despite the song's upbeat tempo, the mood is ultimately one of wistfulness and yearning, as the narrator comes to realize that his connection with the woman was fleeting at best.

"Year of the Cat" has become one of Al Stewart's most beloved songs, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless themes and memorable lyrics. The song remains a staple of classic rock radio, and its influence can be heard in many other artists' work. Despite being released over 40 years ago, "Year of the Cat" continues to captivate new generations of listeners with its hauntingly beautiful melody and cryptic lyrics.