Travel Express (From me)

The Virgins' song 'Travel Express (From me)' is a poignant exploration of unspoken love and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply infatuated with someone they saw in a music video. This initial encounter leaves a lasting impression, as the protagonist's heart 'slipped down to [their] chest,' indicating a powerful emotional response. The imagery of the 'head dyed black' and the 'dirty look' suggests a sense of rebellion and allure, making the object of affection even more captivating.

The song delves into the complexities of this unrequited love. The protagonist imagines scenarios where they could express their feelings, such as planting a kiss on their reflection and pretending it was sent 'travel express' from them. This metaphor highlights the distance and the impossibility of their love, as well as the yearning to bridge that gap. The repeated phrase 'travel express from me' serves as a poignant reminder of the protagonist's desire to communicate their love, even if it's only through imaginary means.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist encounters the object of their affection in a more mundane setting, 'in the seat in the back of a dime.' This encounter is bittersweet, as the protagonist meets the person's husband, who acknowledges them. This moment of recognition is fleeting, and the protagonist is left to 'search the channels with the oldies on,' reminiscing about what could have been. The song captures the essence of unfulfilled love and the passage of time, leaving the listener with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia.