Meaning of "Ghost Train" by Marc Cohn

"Ghost Train" explores themes of loss, longing, and the passage of time. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is trapped in a dream, unsure of their emotions and purpose. They feel both falling and flying, and the crying is comforted by a maternal figure, possibly symbolic of protection and love. The sky breaking up and the rain washing away everything represents a cleansing or a purging of emotions or experiences. The bottle filled with lightning and rain may symbolize a mix of dangerous and unpredictable emotions. The baby's longing for someone who is on the ghost train suggests a desire for connection and a feeling of being left behind or abandoned. The ghost train itself represents the journey through life, with different trains leaving at different times. The mention of trains leaving too soon and the protagonist's determination to keep on riding may imply the fleeting nature of life and the need to embrace the journey despite its transient nature. Overall, the song conveys a sense of yearning and the inevitability of change and loss.