Meaning of "Something Good Coming" by Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers

"Something Good Coming" is a reflective song that explores themes of hope, resilience, and the belief in the possibility of a better future. The lyrics hint at the narrator's past struggles and mistakes. They mention watching the water and the coast, which can symbolize a sense of introspection and observing the ebb and flow of life. The narrator acknowledges that they hold back in expressing their desires and feelings, indicating a need for personal growth and self-discovery. They mention thinking about "mama and about the kids" and reflect on their past experiences and the hardships they have faced as a family. The line about their mother never catching a break suggests a cycle of challenges and missed opportunities. However, despite these challenges, the narrator senses something lucky and good about their current situation. There is a persistent optimism that "something good" is coming. This hope is reinforced by the repetition of the line, "There's something good coming for you and me, something good coming, there has to be." The narrator believes that by staying true to their principles, working hard, and embracing whatever comes their way, they will find the positive change they seek. The song leaves the listener with a sense of anticipation and the idea that despite the hardships faced, there is always the potential for something good to occur.