The song "I'm Coming Home" by Jimmy Barnes is about a person who has been away from their home for a long time and is finally returning. The lyrics express the protagonist's gratitude for making it back home despite feeling lost and swallowed by the challenges they faced. The song begins with the narrator reflecting on their journey and how they never thought they would make it back home. They felt as though they were swallowed by the ground and confronted with difficulties. However, they are now standing on their feet, feeling the red dirt underneath, symbolizing a sense of grounding and familiarity. The lyrics also touch on a bittersweet encounter with someone important in the protagonist's life. They saw this person through the window of a stranger's car, but before they could reunite, the person drove away. There is a sense of longing for this person and a curiosity about their whereabouts. The song explores the pain and heartache that the protagonist has endured since the day this person left. They admit to still having teardrops in their eyes, but they have become stronger as they've faced various challenges during their time away. The chorus emphasizes the desire to return home, which is portrayed as the only place where the protagonist truly belongs. They want to make things right for the mistakes they have made and purge their troubled past before moving forward. Despite having traveled extensively, there are still unresolved issues that need to be addressed. The narrator acknowledges that their experiences away from home have changed them and made them stronger. They reflect on the pain that has stood the test of time but express their resilience and determination to overcome it. They acknowledge that if the challenges they faced didn't kill them, they have become a stronger person as a result. The song's message is ultimately about the protagonist's longing for home and the redemptive journey to right the wrongs they have done. It highlights the importance of returning to one's roots, facing the consequences of past actions, and finding a sense of belonging and reconciliation.
