Long Train Runnin'
Ofln - The 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'
In "Long Train Runnin'" by The Doobie Brothers, the lyrics paint a picture of a scene near a train station. The first verse suggests that the singer is observing the trains passing by, as if mesmerized by their movement. The mention of the trains disappearing implies a sense of transience or passing of time. The refrain emphasizes the importance of love, questioning where one would be without it. This introduces the theme that love is essential and without it, life would be incomplete or uncertain.
The second verse introduces Miss Lucy, who has lost her home and family. This could represent someone who has experienced personal hardships or displacement due to various circumstances, symbolizing the harsh reality of life. The repetition of the refrain emphasizes the question of where one would be without love, implying that love provides support and stability in challenging times.
The third verse highlights the Illinois Central and Southern Central Freight railways, suggesting the constant need to keep pushing forward even when facing delays. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for life's challenges. The repetition of the refrain emphasizes the importance of love in navigating these obstacles.
In the final verse, the lyrics describe the mechanical aspects of a train – the turning pistons, the wheels going round and round, and the cold and hard steel rails. This description creates a vivid image of the train's workings, which can be seen as a metaphor for the relentless march of time and the inevitable hardships one faces along the journey of life. The refrain is repeated again, emphasizing that love is needed to endure and thrive in such circumstances.
In the closing lines, the lyrics convey a sense of urgency and motion, with the invitation to "keep on movin'" and to not stand still. The repetition reinforces the idea that one must continue moving forward despite the challenges faced. Overall, "Long Train Runnin'" combines elements of observation, hardship, perseverance, and the vital role of love in navigating life's ups and downs.
Line by Line Meaning
Down around the corner, half a mile from here
In the vicinity, not too far away at all.
See them long trains run, and you watch them disappear
Observe the lengthy locomotives in motion, gradually fading from sight.
Without love, where would you be now?
If not for love, where would your current circumstances find you?
You know I saw miss Lucy down along the tracks
I encountered a woman named Lucy near the railway lines.
She lost her home and her family and she won't be coming back
She suffered the loss of her residence and loved ones, and she won't be returning.
Well the Illinois Central
The Illinois Central Railroad
And the Southern Central Freight
Additionally, the Southern Central Freight Train
Got to keep on pushin' mama
They must persist and persevere, my dear
You know they're running late
They're behind schedule, you're aware
Well the pistons keep on turning
The pistons continue their movement
And the wheels go round and round
The wheels rotate in a circular fashion
And the steel rails are cold and hard
Meanwhile, the metal tracks remain frigid and unyielding
For the miles that they go down
Throughout the extensive distance they traverse
Mmm, got to get you, baby, baby, won't you move it down?
Hmm, I must acquire your presence, my sweetheart, won't you come closer?
When the big train run
As the significant locomotive operates
When the train is movin' on, I got to keep on movin'
While the train continues its journey, I must persist in my motion
Keep on movin'
Continue progressing forward
Won't you keep on movin'?
Wouldn't you maintain your forward momentum as well?
Gonna keep on movin'
I am determined to persist in my movement
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Tom Johnston
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@user-ze2yf2jl6k
Who still listens this great song in 2024?
@ramondomenech6031
CrazyT, Music Soothes this savaged beast! That 💕 LOVE!?? Where would you be right now!!!!!
@scottcox19
I do
@caroleevers1351
Me! I was dancing to this on Friday night at the club I go to. It's a staple there this song. Hundreds of people up. Happy and dancing their butts off! 😂
@kazrig
Up here in Alaska baby
@tonywoods3149
Me
@baltazar45
Who's still listening this beautiful song in March 2, 2024 with me 🎸️
@memoriesacoustic1833
Me
@pazf4384
July 🤗
@jonnymcgrath4816
Nobody