Meaning of "Good Times Around The Bend" by The String Cheese Incident

"Good Times Around The Bend" is a song that encourages perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity. The lyrics convey the narrator's experience of grappling with difficult emotions and a sense of loss, but also their resolve to overcome these challenges. The repeated phrase "When that old feeling comes around again, I've had enough of feeling down" indicates a weariness with negative emotions and a desire to find a way out.

The metaphor of the rollercoaster provides a concrete analogy for the ups and downs of life. The lyrics suggest that in order to reach the top again, one must first experience the lows. This perspective embraces the inevitability of hardship and acknowledges that it is a necessary part of the journey towards joy and fulfillment.

The imagery of the southbound train in the rain symbolizes both longing and solace. The train, with its headlights still shining in the narrator's brain, represents a past memory or experience that continues to haunt them. However, the train also serves as a companion, staying alongside the narrator to ease their pain. This juxtaposition of comfort and longing reflects the complex emotions often associated with personal growth and healing.

The arrival of spring and the buzz of the river's song in the narrator's ear indicate a shift towards renewal and hope. Nature becomes a source of solace and rejuvenation, offering respite from life's challenges. The treetops swaying and the breeze blowing cares away evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, emphasizing the healing power of the natural world.

Overall, "Good Times Around The Bend" conveys a message of resilience and positivity. It encourages the listener to hold onto the belief that better times are on the horizon, even when faced with difficulties. The song reminds us that through perseverance and finding solace in nature, we can navigate the challenges of life and rediscover joy.