Freight Train

The song 'Freight Train' by the Chas McDevitt Skiffle Group is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of escape, regret, and the inexorable passage of time. The repetitive chorus of 'Freight train, freight train, goin so fast' serves as a metaphor for the relentless forward motion of life, which can often feel out of control and unstoppable. The train symbolizes a journey, possibly one of escape from a troubled past or a desperate attempt to outrun one's fate.

The lyrics tell the story of a man who has committed a grave crime, specifically the murder of a friend. This act has left him with no future and no hope, as he is now a fugitive from the law. The line 'Got no future, got no hope, just nothin but the rope' starkly illustrates his grim outlook, suggesting that he sees no other end but death, possibly by hanging. The train's speed mirrors his frantic state of mind and his futile attempt to escape the consequences of his actions.

In the final verse, the song takes a somber turn as it contemplates the man's inevitable demise. The request to be buried 'way down the end of old Chestnut Street' with 'poplars at his head and feet' evokes a sense of finality and peace, contrasting sharply with the earlier chaos. This imagery suggests a longing for rest and a return to nature, away from the turmoil of his life. The phrase 'tell them he's gone to sleep' is a gentle euphemism for death, indicating a desire for a peaceful end to a troubled existence.

The Chas McDevitt Skiffle Group, known for their skiffle music—a genre blending jazz, blues, and folk—uses simple yet evocative lyrics to tell a deeply emotional story. The song's repetitive structure and haunting melody enhance its themes of inevitability and despair, making 'Freight Train' a timeless reflection on the human condition.