Meaning of Mississippi by Train

The Train song titled 'Mississippi' captivates listeners with its melodious tune and evocative lyrics. The song centers around the theme of longing and unrequited love, beautifully capturing the inner emotions and desires of the protagonist. As we delve into the lyrics, we uncover various standout phrases that intertwine to create a multifaceted exploration of the human experience."They call her Mississippi, but she don't flow to me." At first glance, this line may seem straightforward, referring to a geographical entity. However, when analyzed further, it reveals a deeper longing for connection. Mississippi symbolizes an unattainable person or unfulfilled desire. The protagonist yearns for something they cannot have, creating an overarching theme of longing and unrequited love."Spends her light on the Bayou, but she don't come to see." This line highlights the idea of giving one's best to someone or something, only to be met with indifference or absence. It conveys the notion of feeling unappreciated or overlooked, further reflecting the theme of unrequited love. The protagonist's longing intensifies as they observe Mississippi's absence and the lack of reciprocity in their affections."She's the one that makes my dreams." This simple yet powerful phrase encapsulates the protagonist's infatuation and idealization of Mississippi. It suggests that Mississippi serves as the muse for their dreams, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. This lyric amplifies the theme of longing and unattainable desires, as the protagonist's dreams are solely fueled by the thoughts of Mississippi."The shape of her horizon makes the morning sun." This beautiful imagery paints a vivid picture of the impact Mississippi has on the protagonist. The shape of Mississippi's horizon represents the promise of a new day and the prospect of happiness. By associating this imagery with Mississippi, the song conveys the essence of hope and potential that the protagonist sees in their unrequited love."When she puts her eyes on each and anyone." This line introduces an element of jealousy and possessiveness. It suggests that while Mississippi may captivate everyone's attention, the protagonist desires to be the sole focus of their affection. This adds another layer to the theme of longing, as the protagonist yearns to be the one who captures Mississippi's gaze exclusively."Midnight moon shines through it all." This lyric adds a touch of mysticism to the song. The midnight moon symbolizes the passage of time and the enduring nature of the protagonist's longing. Despite the obstacles and unfulfilled desires, their yearning remains constant. It reinforces the theme of longing and unrequited love, emphasizing the enduring nature of their emotions.In conclusion, Train's 'Mississippi' explores the theme of longing and unrequited love through its evocative lyrics and heartfelt melodies. Each standout lyric ties back to the overarching theme, revealing different facets of the protagonist's desires and emotions. From the unattainable nature of their love to the enduring hope and jealously that accompanies it, the song paints an intricate picture of the complexities of human longing. Through its imaginative storytelling, 'Mississippi' resonates with listeners, capturing the universal experience of longing for something or someone that seems just out of reach.