A Stranger In Town is a song by Julie London, released in 1958. The lyrics tell the story of a person who returns to their hometown after being away for some time. They had expected to see familiar faces and reunite with old friends, but instead, they find that things have changed. The protagonist feels like a stranger in their own hometown. Everywhere they go, people are curious about who they are, indicating that they are no longer recognized or remembered by the locals. This makes the protagonist realize that they don't belong anymore and that their absence has made them an outsider. The lyrics mention a cottage on a lonely old street that holds some significance to the protagonist. They had hoped someone, potentially a loved one or a close friend, would be waiting for them there. However, upon seeing the neglected state of the cottage and the overgrown weeds surrounding it, they realize that they are too late. Whoever they had hoped would be there has moved on or no longer exists. Feeling disheartened, the protagonist decides to leave on the twelve-oh-two train. They can't believe that there is no longer a place for them or anyone who cares about their return. The last lines express their deep sadness and a sense of perpetual alienation, as they feel like a stranger even in their own hometown. Overall, "A Stranger In Town" captures the emotions of nostalgia, longing, and the pain of being forgotten or left behind. It reflects on the changes that can occur when someone is absent from their familiar surroundings for an extended period.
