Song meaning of Freight Train by Elizabeth Cotten

The song "Freight Train" by Elizabeth Cotten captures a sense of freedom and anonymity that the speaker desires. The chorus repeatedly emphasizes the speed of the train, suggesting a desire for escape and the need to leave past troubles behind. The plea to not reveal the train or the route reflects the speaker's wish to remain unknown and untraceable, allowing them to forge a new path away from the burdens of their current life.

In the first verse, the speaker expresses a longing for peace and a release from the hardships they have experienced in their current existence. They long for an eternal sleep, symbolized by placing stones at their head and feet, signifying a traditional burial. This desire for rest and tranquility is further emphasized in the repetition of the phrase "tell 'em all that I've gone to sleep."

The second verse adds depth to the speaker's yearning for a fresh start. The specific location mentioned, "old Chestnut Street," holds significance as it provides a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. Buried deep, the speaker wishes to be close enough to hear the passing train, Old Number Nine, indicating a longing for both movement and connection to the outside world.

The final verse reiterates the speaker's desire for a final resting place on Chestnut Street, emphasizing the importance of location in their journey towards peace and detachment. By asking for stones to be placed at their head and feet, the speaker wants to ensure that their departure is unquestionable.

Overall, "Freight Train" conveys a poignant message about the human desire for freedom, escape, and the ability to leave the past behind. The song captures the universal longing for a fresh start and the hope for a peaceful afterlife.