Meaning of "Runaway" by Traveling Wilburys

The lyrics of "Runaway" explore the emotions surrounding a lost love and the desire for closure. The narrator is walking alone, thinking about what went wrong in their relationship. They remember the happy times they shared when they were younger, highlighting the strength of their love. However, the current situation is different, and the narrator finds themselves walking in the rain, tears falling, and feeling immense pain. They express a longing for their partner to be by their side, as their absence only perpetuates their misery.

The repeating line "I wonder" reflects the narrator's confusion and inability to understand why their partner ran away. They ask why repeatedly, trying to grasp the reason behind their departure. There is a sense of searching and longing in these words, as the narrator wonders where their partner has gone and where they will stay. The use of "my little runaway" suggests the tenderness and familiarity the narrator feels towards their lost love.

The theme of lost love and heartbreak is a universal one, and these lyrics capture the emotions that many can relate to. The rain serves as a metaphor for the narrator's tears and the pain they are experiencing. It symbolizes the sadness and sorrow that accompany a breakup. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the narrator's longing and the impact of their partner's departure, as they continue to wander around aimlessly, searching for answers.

Overall, "Runaway" is a heartfelt exploration of lost love and the lingering effects it has on the narrator. It delves into the emotions of sadness, longing, and confusion, delving into the universal experience of heartbreak.