Meaning of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Passenger

The lyrics of "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Passenger convey a sense of hope in the face of adversity and longing for a better future. The narrator reflects on their life, describing how they were born in a difficult situation and have been constantly on the move, much like a river. They acknowledge that change has been a long time coming but express a strong belief that it will eventually come. The lyrics also touch on the difficulties of life and the fear of the unknown that comes with death. The narrator feels it has been too hard to live but remains uncertain about what lies beyond life. They seek solace in going to movies and downtown, but are warned by others to stay away, possibly suggesting that they are surrounded by negativity or dangerous influences. The narrator then turns to their brother for help, only to be let down and knocked back down on their knees, further emphasizing the challenges they face. Despite these setbacks, the narrator recognizes their inner strength to persevere and feels confident they can carry on. They believe that change, though it has been a long time coming, will inevitably come to pass.

The lyrics of "A Change Is Gonna Come" speak to the universal desire for improvement and the persistence required to overcome obstacles. It reflects the human condition of longing for something better in the face of hardships and injustice. The reference to being born by the river and constantly running symbolizes the hardships faced by marginalized individuals who are constantly striving for stability and equality. The fear of death and uncertainty about the afterlife expresses a longing for answers and a search for meaning. The cautionary advice against hanging around suggests the presence of negative influences in the world that can hinder progress. The disappointment faced when seeking help from loved ones adds another layer of complexity to the struggles depicted in the lyrics. Despite all these challenges, the narrator finds solace in their own resilience, suggesting that change is not only external but also internal, requiring inner strength to persist. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of hope and resilience, reminding listeners that change is inevitable and that it is possible to overcome even the most difficult circumstances.