Meaning of "City to City" by Gerry Rafferty

The lyrics of "City to City" by Gerry Rafferty convey a sense of restlessness and longing for home. The narrator is torn between leaving someone behind and the desire to return home. The night train becomes a symbol of escape and solace, providing a temporary haven from the struggles the narrator faces. The guilt they feel highlights the conflict within themselves as they grapple with the consequences of their decision to leave. The star shining bright in the darkness represents hope and a reminder that there is something beyond their current situation. It serves as a source of comfort and reassurance, brightening their perspective. The repetitive mention of going home emphasizes the narrator's yearning for familiarity and a place of belonging. The train journey becomes a metaphor for the journey of life itself, with stops and obstacles along the way. The reference to calling out to a higher power suggests a sense of surrender and reliance on something beyond their control. Ultimately, the song captures the universal human desire for connection, stability, and a place to call home.