The protagonist, a taxi driver, picks up a woman who he recognizes from his past, but she denies knowing him. They share memories of a past relationship where she wanted to be an actress and he wanted to learn to fly. She pays the fare and they part ways, both realizing they got what they wanted, but at a cost.

Meaning of "Taxi" by Harry Chapin

The lyrics of "Taxi" by Harry Chapin tell a complex story of lost love, unfulfilled dreams, and the passage of time. The reminiscing taxi driver and the woman he once knew reflect on their past ambitions and the paths they chose to take. The nostalgia and bittersweetness of their encounter highlight the sacrifices made for dreams that never materialized. The protagonist's realization that they both got what they wanted but at a cost encapsulates the underlying theme of missed opportunities, unfulfilled potential, and the harsh reality of growing older. The song beautifully explores the complexities of life choices, lost love, and the transient nature of dreams.