Never Marry A Railroad Man
Trepidant's
The Heartache of Loving a Railroad Man
The song 'Never Marry A Railroad Man' by Trepidant's delves into the emotional turmoil and heartache associated with loving someone whose life is dominated by their demanding profession. The lyrics offer a cautionary tale, warning against the pitfalls of falling in love with a railroad man. The repetitive advice to 'never marry a railroad man' underscores the transient nature of his affection, as his heart is more committed to his work than to any romantic relationship.
The song opens with a direct question to the listener, asking if they've ever experienced heartbreak. This sets the stage for the advice that follows, suggesting that those who have been hurt before will understand the pain of being with someone who is often absent and emotionally unavailable. The railroad man is depicted as someone who loves 'every now and then,' indicating a sporadic and unreliable presence in the relationship. His heart is described as being 'at his mule train,' a metaphor for his unwavering dedication to his job, which takes precedence over his personal life.
The lyrics also touch on the loneliness and restlessness that come with being in a relationship with someone who is frequently away. The imagery of lying in bed, feeling so lonely that 'your eyes became wet,' paints a vivid picture of the emotional strain and isolation experienced by the partner left behind. The song's repetitive structure and the use of 'no-no-no' emphasize the inevitability of disappointment and heartache in such a relationship. Ultimately, the song serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and emotional challenges that come with loving someone whose life is consumed by their work.