Long Train Runnin'
Doobie Brothers Lyrics
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See them long trains run, and you watch them disappear
Without love, where would you be now?
Without love
You know I saw miss Lucy down along the tracks
She lost her home and her family and she won't be coming back
Without love, where would you be right now?
Well the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central Freight
Got to keep on pushin' mama
You know they're running late
Without love, where would you be now-now-now-now?
Without love
Well the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central Freight
Got to keep on pushin' mama
You know they're running late
Without love, where would you be now?
Without love
Well the pistons keep on turning
And the wheels go round and round
And the steel rails are cold and hard
For the miles that they go down
Without love, where would you be right now?
Without love, ooh
Where would you be now?
Mmm, got to get you, baby, baby, won't you move it down?
Won't you move it down?
Baby, baby, baby, baby, won't you move it down?
When the big train run
When the train is movin' on, I got to keep on movin'
Keep on movin'
Won't you keep on movin'?
Gonna keep on movin'
The lyrics of "Long Train Runnin'" by the Doobie Brothers can be interpreted as a reflection on the power of love and the consequences of its absence. The opening lines present a scene where the singer is watching long trains pass by, symbolizing the passage of time and experiences. The trains disappearing could represent the transient nature of life and how quickly things can change. The repetition of the question "Without love, where would you be now?" emphasizes the importance of love in one's life, suggesting that love is what gives meaning and direction.
The lyrics then introduce Miss Lucy, who has lost her home and family. This can be seen as an example of the consequences of not having love, as the absence of love can lead to personal tragedy and loss. The repetition of the question highlights again the significance of love in providing stability and support.
The mention of the Illinois Central and Southern Central Freight trains could symbolize the relentless pace of life, where it's necessary to keep pushing forward even when faced with delays. The repetition of the phrase "Got to keep on pushin'" reinforces the idea of perseverance and determination in the face of challenges. The question "Without love, where would you be now?" is repeated again, underscoring that love is crucial for navigating and overcoming the obstacles and pressures of life.
The closing lines of the song introduce a new element, the pistons and wheels of a train, which symbolize the progress of life. The "steel rails" are described as "cold and hard," reflecting the harsh realities of life's journey. Again, the question "Without love, where would you be right now?" is repeated, suggesting that love is essential for finding warmth, comfort, and purpose amidst life's hardships.
The final lines express a sense of urgency and a determination to keep moving forward. The repetition of the phrase "Keep on movin'" suggests a refusal to be stagnant or give up. It can be interpreted as a call to embrace change, face challenges head-on, and continue seeking love and its transformative power.
Overall, the lyrics of "Long Train Runnin'" present love as a guiding force in life, emphasizing its significance in providing direction, stability, and strength amidst the unpredictable journey of existence.
Line by Line Meaning
Down around the corner, half a mile from here
In the vicinity, not far away, about 0.5 miles from this location
See them long trains run, and you watch them disappear
Observe those lengthy trains passing by, vanishing from sight
Without love, where would you be now?
If not for love, in what state or position would you currently find yourself?
Without love
In the absence of love
You know I saw miss Lucy down along the tracks
I encountered a woman named Lucy near the railroad tracks
She lost her home and her family and she won't be coming back
She has experienced the misfortune of losing both her residence and her loved ones, and she will not return
Where would you be right now?
At this precise moment, where would you currently be?
Well the Illinois Central
Referring to the Illinois Central Railroad
And the Southern Central Freight
Additionally, mentioning the Southern Central Freight
Got to keep on pushin' mama
They must persist and exert effort, figuratively addressing a motherly figure
You know they're running late
It is known that they are behind schedule
Where would you be now-now-now-now?
At this moment, where would you currently be?
Well the pistons keep on turning
The mechanical components continue rotating
And the wheels go round and round
Furthermore, the wheels revolve in a circular motion
And the steel rails are cold and hard
The metal tracks are both frigid and unyielding
For the miles that they go down
Throughout the extended distances they traverse
Where would you be right now?
At this precise moment, where would you currently be?
Without love, ooh
In the absence of love, oh
Mmm, got to get you, baby, baby, won't you move it down?
Hmm, I must acquire your attention, darling, would you please come closer?
When the big train run
During the occurrence of the large locomotive passing by
When the train is movin' on, I got to keep on movin'
As the train progresses, I must continue moving forward
Gonna keep on movin'
Intending to persist in locomotion
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Tom Johnston
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind