Meaning of Rat by Train

In the world of music, certain songs have the power to captivate our senses and take us on a journey of emotions. "Rat" by Train is one such song that delves into themes of personal struggle, identity, and a longing for connection. Through its lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of a character who is lost and searching for meaning in a world that seems to overlook him.The overall theme of "Rat" revolves around a character who feels trapped and unfulfilled in his current circumstances. The opening lines set the stage for the character's disillusionment. As a recent graduate, he is described as a "teacher's pet and modern fool," highlighting his academic excellence, but his lack of practical knowledge. This establishes the character's initial naivety and idealism.One of the standout lyrics in the song is, "Can't describe him in his corner, like a rat out of the water." This line conjures contrasting images, highlighting the character's isolation and vulnerability. It explores the notion of feeling out of place and how the character is struggling to adapt to his surroundings. The theme developed here is the overwhelming pressure to conform and fit into societal expectations, leaving him feeling like a rat out of its natural habitat.The lyrics, "Out of work and outta grass, Mother Mary never seems to stop to talk, she just walks on past," delve into the character's frustration and disillusionment with the world around him. The reference to Mother Mary adds a spiritual layer to the song, suggesting that even in moments of desperation, hope can be elusive. These lines explore themes of abandonment, isolation, and the ways in which individuals can feel unnoticed or ignored, even by those who are supposed to care.As the song progresses, the character undergoes a shift. The lyrics, "He's outta school now, just another taken barstool, and this neighborhood ain't what he had in mind," convey a sense of resignation and disappointment. The character's dreams and aspirations seem to have been swallowed up by an unsatisfying reality. The theme developed here is the struggle to reconcile one's desires and expectations with the disillusionment of reality.A surprising and imaginative theme that can be derived from the song is the idea of escapism through different personas. The lyrics, "wants to be your girlfriend, love to be your boyfriend, wants to be your telephone, wants to wants to be your man," create an image of the character yearning to be something or someone else. These lines tap into the universal desire to escape one's own reality and assume a different identity in search of fulfillment, acceptance, or connection. This theme takes the song to a deeper level, exploring the complexities of human desire and the lengths some may go to find their place in the world.Overall, "Rat" by Train tackles themes of disillusionment, isolation, and the search for identity and connection. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song opens the door to multiple interpretative avenues. It speaks to the inherent struggles we all face, reminding us that sometimes it takes getting lost to find ourselves. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the ways in which they navigate through life's disappointments and uncertainties.