The lyrics describe a sense of loss, loneliness, and displacement as the protagonist finds himself on a fast train going nowhere after his lover leaves. He feels isolated, desperate, and disconnected from others, leading him to break down and seek solace in the movement and sound of the train.

Meaning of "Fast Train" by Van Morrison

"Fast Train" by Van Morrison paints a poignant picture of emotional turmoil and disorientation felt by an individual who has experienced a significant loss. The fast train becomes a poignant metaphor for how the protagonist tries to escape his pain and heartache by physically moving but ultimately finds himself going nowhere, mirroring the futility of trying to run away from intense emotions. The lyrics depict a sense of abandonment, both by the lover who has left and by the world that feels indifferent to his suffering. The feelings of isolation are compounded by the harsh external environment, with references to pouring rain, sleet, snow, and barren waste. The train represents a temporary distraction from the protagonist's inner turmoil, but ultimately, he is unable to escape his pain. The repetition of "keep on moving on a fast train" underscores a sense of desperation and the inability to pause and confront the underlying emotional issues. Overall, the lyrics capture the cyclical nature of emotional pain and the struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that feels cold and uncaring.