Song meaning of Early Morning Rain by Peter, Paul and Mary

The song "Early Morning Rain" by Peter, Paul and Mary tells a story of loneliness, longing, and the desire for escape. The lyrics convey the feeling of being lost and stuck in a difficult situation. The narrator finds himself in the early morning rain with only a dollar in his hand and an aching heart. The mention of pockets full of sand suggests that he is destitute and without any resources.

The second verse describes the narrator watching a plane take off while he remains on the ground. He is envious of those who can escape their troubles and find freedom in the sky, contrasting sharply with his own situation. The liquor and fast women mentioned also hint at a temporary escape from reality, showing that the narrator is trying to cope with his hardships in any way he can.

In the third verse, the narrator imagines the plane flying above the clouds, leaving behind the rain and darkness. This symbolizes his yearning for a brighter future and a better life. The contrast between the gloomy present and the hope of a sunlit future is emphasized.

In the final verse, the narrator expresses frustration with his current circumstances but acknowledges that he cannot simply run away. Unlike jumping on a freight train, he cannot escape his problems by jumping on a jet plane. However, he realizes that he needs to move on and continue his journey, even if it means facing the challenges of the early morning rain.

Overall, the song conveys a message of longing, escape, and the harsh realities of life. It speaks to the universal human experience of feeling lost and desiring a better life while acknowledging the limitations and challenges we all face.