Meaning of "Early Mornin' Rain" by Bob Dylan

"Early Mornin' Rain" tells a story of longing, loneliness, and the desire for escape. The narrator is stuck at an airport, symbolizing a state of limbo and feeling disconnected from his home and loved ones. The mention of the dollar in his hand and the ache in his heart highlights both his lack of financial resources and emotional stability. The pockets full of sand may represent a lack of substance, as if everything he holds is slipping away from him.

The plane taking off becomes a symbol of freedom and the unknown. It represents a chance to leave behind the pain and drudgery of his current situation and embark on a new adventure. The mention of the liquor tasting good and the women being fast suggests that the narrator is using temporary pleasures to cope with his loneliness and disillusionment. However, as the plane rolls down the runway, he realizes that he's left behind and stuck on the ground.

The song explores the contrast between the narrator's reality and his idealized vision of escape. He imagines a place where there is no rain and the sun always shines, symbolizing a perfect existence devoid of hardship and sadness. The mention of the plane flying over his home highlights the distance between him and his loved ones, emphasizing his longing and the feeling of being left behind.

Ultimately, the narrator realizes that he cannot simply jump on a plane like he could on a train. He acknowledges the limitations of his current situation and decides to leave in the early morning rain, suggesting that he will continue to search for a way out, even if it means facing the challenges and uncertainties that come with it.

The lyrics of "Early Mornin' Rain" reflect the universal human desire for freedom, escape, and connection. It captures the bittersweet nature of longing for something better while being confronted with the realities of one's current circumstances. The song serves as a reminder that the pursuit of happiness often involves facing hardships, making tough choices, and finding the strength to keep moving forward.