The lyrics of "Transit" describe the chaos of rush hour traffic on a Friday evening as people are heading to their destinations, frustrated and impatient. The song paints a picture of road rage, impatience, missed exits, and general disregard for others on the road until it culminates in a nun from St. Agnes's choir changing a tire, causing a temporary pause to the chaos. Eventually, the nun arrives at a prison for a choir performance where the inmates, from car thieves to mobsters to murderers, join in beautiful harmony, showing the universal need for forgiveness and redemption.

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Meaning of "Transit" by Richard Shindell


"Transit" by Richard Shindell explores the theme of the human experience and the interconnectedness of individuals from different walks of life. The chaotic rush hour traffic serves as a metaphor for the fast-paced, self-centered world we live in, where people are consumed by their own frustrations and desires without regard for others. The nun's act of changing a tire and the subsequent choir performance in the prison represent moments of connection, empathy, and shared humanity amidst the chaos. It highlights the power of music and forgiveness to transcend boundaries, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The song ultimately conveys a message of redemption, hope, and the possibility of finding solace and connection in unexpected places.