Meaning of "Miles Away" by Marc Cohn

The lyrics of "Miles Away" by Marc Cohn convey a sense of emotional detachment and a desire for escapism. The speaker grapples with inner turmoil, unable to fully articulate their feelings to friends who inquire about their well-being or to recognize the deeper meanings behind their struggles. The metaphor of dreams being "miles away" symbolizes how far removed the speaker feels from their aspirations and goals. The repetition of "miles away" emphasizes this distance and highlights the speaker's need for isolation and solitude. By expressing a desire to be a "million miles away" where they don't have to think or engage with others, the speaker reflects a yearning for mental peace and a temporary reprieve from the complexities of life. However, the mention of hearing their mother calling suggests a fleeting moment of grounding reality amidst the desire for escapism. Overall, the lyrics capture a poignant depiction of emotional estrangement and the longing for a mental escape from struggles and responsibilities.