The narrator is feeling disconnected from someone they care about, who is distant and strong-willed. They are struggling to get this person out of their mind, comparing their feelings to when an angel cries or runaway trains pass by.

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Meaning of "Runaway Trains" by Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers


The lyrics of "Runaway Trains" depict a sense of longing and unrequited love, as the narrator grapples with feelings of heartbreak and abandonment. The imagery of runaway trains symbolizes the unpredictable and unstoppable nature of emotions, conveying the idea that sometimes feelings can overpower rational thought and control. The comparison to an angel crying adds a poignant touch, suggesting a sense of loss and sadness that is difficult to articulate. The line "I'm depending on time, babe, to get you out of my mind" reflects the struggle to move on and let go of the person who has left, highlighting the complexities of human emotions. Overall, the song captures the raw and emotional experience of unreciprocated love and the pain of holding onto what is no longer there.