Train For Tomorrow

The song 'Train For Tomorrow' by the Electric Prunes delves into the uncertainties and anxieties surrounding the future. The lyrics pose existential questions about the continuity of natural phenomena, such as the sun glowing, the rain falling, and the wind blowing. These questions reflect a deeper concern about the stability and predictability of life itself. The metaphor of the train serves as a vehicle for exploring these uncertainties, suggesting a journey into the unknown future that everyone must undertake.

The song also touches on the potential for change and the power of human agency. The line 'Can a man change the mind of men?' questions whether individual actions can influence broader societal shifts. This is followed by an invitation to 'come ride the train for tomorrow,' implying that embracing the journey and the possibility of change is essential, even if the destination is uncertain. The train, laden with coal, symbolizes the weight and inevitability of this journey, emphasizing that there is no escaping the passage of time and the arrival of the future.

Furthermore, the song raises concerns about the legacy we leave for future generations. The question 'Will our children have the chance to pray when tomorrow becomes today?' highlights fears about the moral and spiritual well-being of future generations. The anticipation of 'the knock upon our door that means the future of our dreams' encapsulates the hope and anxiety that come with waiting for what the future holds. The Electric Prunes use vivid imagery and poignant questions to create a thought-provoking narrative about the uncertainties of life and the inexorable march of time.