The lyrics tell the story of an engineer who leaves his locomotive unattended with a monkey sitting in the driver's seat. The monkey accidentally pulls the throttle, causing the train to speed down the mainline, reaching 80 miles per hour. The engineer calls the dispatcher to alert them of the situation, and through quick thinking and communication, they manage to avoid a collision with a northbound train.

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Meaning of "Monkey and the Engineer" by Dave Rawlings Machine


The lyrics of "Monkey and the Engineer" can be interpreted as a playful and humorous tale that illustrates the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of quick thinking in unexpected situations. The story highlights how even the best-laid plans can go awry due to a small mistake or unforeseen circumstances. The engineer's ability to remain calm and resourceful in the face of chaos showcases the importance of adapting and finding solutions on the fly. Furthermore, the collaboration and communication between the engineer, dispatcher, and switch operator emphasize the value of teamwork and coordination in overcoming challenges. Overall, the lyrics serve as a reminder to stay flexible, keep a cool head, and work together to solve problems, no matter how unexpected they may be.