Train In The Distance

Paul Simon Paul Simon

The Elusive Promise of Happiness in 'Train In The Distance'

Paul Simon's 'Train In The Distance' is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, marriage, and the human tendency to idealize the future. The song begins with a romantic encounter, where the protagonist is captivated by a woman who is already married. His determination to win her over sets the stage for a relationship that is fraught with challenges from the start. The imagery of the 'train in the distance' serves as a metaphor for the allure of something better, something just out of reach, that everyone believes in but rarely attains.

As the narrative progresses, the couple marries and has a child, but their relationship begins to unravel. The song delves into the disillusionment that often accompanies long-term relationships, highlighting how initial passion can give way to disagreements and unmet expectations. The line 'Negotiations and love songs are often mistaken for one and the same' underscores the idea that love is often romanticized, while the reality involves compromise and conflict.

Despite their separation, the man and woman maintain contact, ostensibly for the sake of their child. Their interactions are marked by a mix of nostalgia and unresolved tension, reflecting the complicated nature of their bond. The recurring theme of the 'train in the distance' symbolizes the persistent hope that life could be better, a hope that is 'woven indelibly into our hearts and our brains.' This metaphor captures the universal human experience of longing for an idealized future, even when faced with the imperfections of the present.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
  2. You Can Call Me Al
  3. Duncan
  4. Something So Right
  5. Still Crazy After All These Years
  6. The Boxer
  7. The Sound Of Silence
  8. Father And Daughter
  9. April comes she will
  10. American Tune
View all Paul Simon songs

Most popular topics in Paul Simon songs

Related artists

  1. Billy Joel
    Billy Joel
  2. Bruce Springsteen
    Bruce Springsteen
  3. Tom Petty
    Tom Petty
  4. Carole King
    Carole King
  5. Leonard Cohen
    Leonard Cohen
  6. Bob Dylan
    Bob Dylan
  7. Peter Gabriel
    Peter Gabriel
  8. Carly Simon
    Carly Simon