The lyrics of "Two Trains Running" talk about feeling lost and abandoned, waiting for something to come your way but feeling like nothing is going your direction. The singer wishes they were a catfish in the sea, escaping the troubles on land, and finds comfort in a woman who is just alright with him.

Read more
image

Meaning of "Two Trains Running" by The Paul Butterfield Blues Band


"Two Trains Running" captures a sense of longing and displacement, where the speaker feels out of sync with the world around them. The metaphor of the two trains symbolizes different paths or opportunities in life, but none seem to align with what the singer desires. The image of the catfish swimming in the deep blue sea represents a desire for escapism and freedom from the current situation. The woman in the lyrics provides comfort and solace, despite being deemed "no good" by others, showing that sometimes unconventional sources of support can be the most valuable. Overall, the song paints a picture of seeking solace in the face of adversity and finding a sense of belonging in unexpected places.