Meaning of "When You Need a Train It Never Comes" by Amanda Shires

The lyrics of "When You Need a Train It Never Comes" explore the theme of being trapped in an unhappy relationship and the frustration that comes with longing for change. The dream sequence at the beginning of the song sets the tone for the overall feeling of entrapment and desperation. The narrator, tied to a train track, represents a feeling of helplessness and being at the mercy of fate. They hope for the trains to come and free them from their misery, but are left waiting in vain.

The arrival of the partner, portrayed by them leaving everything behind except their phone, symbolizes their detachment and lack of commitment to the relationship. The narrator leans out the window, hoping for a sign of the trains below, but is met with silence and emptiness. This lack of action and response represents the partner's unwillingness or inability to provide the change and escape that the narrator desires.

The mention of the "union pacific" highlights the narrator's attempt to take control of the situation and come up with a plan to improve their circumstances. However, their plan becomes futile without the arrival of the train. This emphasizes the idea that even the best-laid plans are ineffective without the necessary elements coming into play.

The imagery of standing in the kitchen with dirty dishes and unfinished tasks alludes to the neglect and disarray within the relationship. The reference to a leaking washer and broken porch light symbolizes the broken promises and unresolved issues that the partner has left behind. The narrator longs for a distraction and noise to drown out their thoughts and the haunting presence of their partner's voice. The train is presented as the only thing that can drown out the pain and provide temporary relief.

The final verse expresses the narrator's vulnerability and fear of being left behind with the partner's belongings. They reject the idea of being treated as a trade-off in their partner's search for something new. The lyrics imply that this behavior is mean-spirited and cruel, leaving the narrator feeling abandoned and betrayed.

Overall, "When You Need a Train It Never Comes" delves into the emotions of hopelessness and longing for change in an unsatisfying relationship. The train serves as a symbol of escape and relief, but its absence signifies the inability to achieve the desired freedom. The lyrics convey the frustration and despair that comes from feeling trapped and abandoned by someone who is supposed to care.