Time Between Trains

Susan Werner's "Time Between Trains" is a contemplative exploration of waiting, self-reflection, and the passage of time. The song's protagonist finds herself at a train station, a metaphorical crossroads where she can choose her next destination. This setting symbolizes the freedom and uncertainty of life's journey, where choices abound, yet the waiting period between decisions can feel interminable. The train station becomes a place of introspection, where the protagonist reflects on her life, her choices, and the passage of time.

The lyrics convey a sense of restlessness and introspection. The protagonist engages in various activities to pass the time, such as reading and counting ceiling tiles, which highlight the monotony and impatience of waiting. Despite her self-assuredness and contentment with her appearance and achievements, there is an underlying sense of longing and unfulfilled desire. The mention of love being routed through Miami suggests a missed connection or opportunity, adding a layer of romantic yearning to the narrative.

Werner's clever use of historical references, such as the Wright brothers designing planes, underscores the theme of innovation born from waiting. The protagonist's musings on sublimation, a psychological defense mechanism, suggest a deeper layer of emotional processing and transformation. The song captures the universal experience of waiting and the introspective journey it often entails, inviting listeners to reflect on their own moments of pause and the choices that lie ahead.