Meaning of "Can't Ignore the Train" by 10,000 Maniacs

The song delves into the lives of individuals stuck in a cycle of routine and missed chances, symbolized by the repeated refrain of "Can't ignore the train." The water tower, the valley, and the silent night represent a sense of isolation and confinement within the town. The mention of a spoiled girl with a forced apology trapped in her throat hints at the constraints and expectations placed on individuals within the community. The lyrics touch upon themes of confinement, missed opportunities, and the desire for something more, reflected in the trapped girl with gray hair braided, symbolizing the passage of time and unfulfilled dreams. Overall, the song captures the sense of suffocation and stagnation that can come from being stuck in a small town with limited opportunities.