"Like A Freight Train" is a song by John Hiatt that reflects on the narrator's journey through life and the hardships he has faced. The lyrics convey a sense of loss, resilience, and self-reflection. The song begins with the line "Keep an eye on my blind spots, there's too many," hinting at the narrator's struggles and vulnerabilities. He expresses a desire to find light in his life, but feels that it is lacking. The line "Was top dead center baby, now my motor's gone soft" suggests a decline in his once powerful and driven demeanor. The mention of a ring given by the narrator's sister, which originally belonged to their late mother, symbolizes the emotional weight and connection to the past. The revelation that he stole his mother's morphine before her death suggests a troubled and desperate state of mind. In the following verses, the lyrics describe a time when the narrator had a strong presence and confidence, comparing himself to a freight train. However, his life took a turn, and he feels that he has lost his way and purpose. The mention of paying a price for everything and being left in a town reflects the consequences he has faced and the isolation he feels. The chorus emphasizes the narrator's desire for the best for someone else, possibly a loved one, showing his selflessness. However, he acknowledges that he has lost sight of what is truly important and has become disconnected from his own happiness and fulfillment. The lyrics also touch on moments of happiness and stability in the narrator's life, such as the sunshine in his kitchen and the presence of loved ones. Despite these positive aspects, the repeated line "I used to roll through here like a freight train" suggests that he is unable to maintain a steady and confident path. The song ends with the admission that the love he received deeply affected him, even if he tried to hide it. The line "I used to make you smile" reflects on his ability to bring happiness to someone else's life, but he seems to have lost that ability due to his own struggles and mistakes. Overall, "Like A Freight Train" portrays the journey of a person who has lost their way and is trying to make sense of their past choices and the consequences they have faced. It speaks to themes of resilience, longing, and the complexity of human emotions.
