Switching out memory for melody here is quite jarring, but impactful. Here Billy chooses the words "memory" instead of melody, which is interesting since it's the first use of the word. Why does this man need to make love to a drink? I don't think it's too far to assume that this man has no one at home to love, and so he comes to the bar to find comradery, if not love (which is a common theme). This conveys a sense of sadness and loneliness. Here Billy chooses the words "makin' love" instead of just drinking. What about this old man? Why is he here? What's his back story? If he's here before the crowd came in, why didn't he sit farther away? This paints the picture that Billy and the old man have been sitting for at least a while. The old man here has been sitting next to him as the people are shuffling in. This sets up for us that he and they are bound to this place, and as we will see soon, maybe not happily. Additionally, Billy is telling us that he knows these people well enough to know who the regulars are. This has a sense of comradery, but not a sense of friendship or happiness. Saturdays are meant to go out and do something exciting, but instead these people come to this bar. The evening is setting in on a weekend night. Here Billy Joel sets the stage for the whole setting perfectly in a short line.
There's a hint of loneliness, but happiness in being in this bar. I am not a professional critic, I am just sharing my love for this song, and everything in here is just my opinion, or personal view. Every line is dripping with back story and depth, so I wanted to write something about each line. I will be going through the lyrics and give my analysis on it.
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