The song "Corey's Coming" tells the story of an old man named John Joseph who spends his days telling stories about his past and his beloved Corey. However, it is revealed that Corey is not a real person, but rather an imaginary love interest. After John Joseph passes away, a young man who used to listen to his stories continues to work in the railroad yard where John Joseph spent his days, longing for the company of the old man and his imaginary love.

Meaning of "Corey's Coming" by Harry Chapin

"Corey's Coming" is a poignant tale that explores the themes of loneliness, imagination, and the power of companionship. John Joseph's creation of an imaginary lover named Corey highlights the profound emptiness he feels in his isolated life. Through Corey, he finds a sense of purpose and hope, using her existence as a means to cope with his solitude. The young man who takes his place after John Joseph's passing also struggles with loneliness, finding himself missing the old man and the companionship they shared. The song speaks to the universal need for connection and the ways in which people create their own realities to find comfort in difficult circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the importance of human connection and the impact of companionship on one's emotional well-being.