The song "All Kinds Of People" by John Hiatt tells a story about a person who is deeply in love with someone who doesn't reciprocate their feelings. The lyrics depict the narrator's efforts and sacrifices to win over the person they love. In the beginning, the narrator spends the morning getting their car fixed in Franklin, possibly a reference to a small town. During this time, they can't help but think about the person who isn't ready for a relationship. Despite going to great lengths and bending over backwards, the narrator's efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated. The narrator then reflects on how they spend a lot of time loving different kinds of people, but not everyone cares for their heart in return. They compare their love for the person to the vastness of the ocean, implying that their feelings are profound and all-encompassing. However, they accept that the person they love is destined for a different path, and this realization tears them apart emotionally. The narrative takes a turn as the narrator mentions a house with spirits and a sale sign, suggesting that they may have lived there together with the person they love. They reminisce about a time when they introduced the person to Lonnie Johnson's music and express how they had hoped the person would grow to love it like they did. As the song continues, the narrator admits avoiding driving past the corner house where they once lived together, taking a different route to the grocery store. They long for the person who was once new and full of life, with eyes as wide as whole notes, eager to share their thoughts and experiences. The lyrics imply a sense of longing and a desire to be reunited. In summary, "All Kinds Of People" explores themes of unrequited love, sacrifice, longing, and the pain of letting go. The song reflects on a one-sided love and the narrator's struggle to come to terms with the fact that the person they love is moving on.
