Meaning of "Tomorrow On The Runway" by The Innocence Mission

The lyrics of "Tomorrow On The Runway" by The Innocence Mission convey a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the feeling of being left behind in life. The singer muses on the past, symbolized by the "old days" and "darkness," while acknowledging the presence of someone who is always "miles ahead" and "standing in tomorrow on the runway." This juxtaposition of stagnation and progress highlights the emotional distance between the speaker and the person who has moved on. The longing for connection and renewal is evident in lines like "Be the music in my head" and "Replace the small disgraces of the times and places that I never really left." The imagery of flying forward into the light and seeking clarity at a red light symbolize a desire for transformation and a fresh start. Overall, the lyrics capture a sense of melancholy and yearning for a new beginning, while grappling with the pain of feeling left behind.