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Length
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In an interview with Nick Grimshaw on BBC Radio 1 Nick introduced Sam by saying that “the vibes around Sam have definitely changed,” and Sam agreed. They explained that, unlike ‘In the Lonely Hour’ which was largely about a one-sided love affair, this album is a tribute to the family and friends who have supported them over the years, focusing on ‘their lives — their ups and downs’, rather than their own.
This song is not about Sam but a friend or family member who decided, with sadness, to end a relationship. Beyond that, the song is somewhat mysterious, as Sam has clearly preferred not to divulge someone else’s personal information. However, Sam has said that ‘I hope this song has helped them’.'
The ‘Midnight Train’ of the title can be taken as a metaphor. While it is possible that the speaker did literally slip away at night, the idea of a near-empty, late night train is symbolic, rather mournful, suggesting a sad, lone traveller escaping from a relationship that wasn’t working. And midnight, of course, is a time of mystery and danger, the singer facing a new day and an uncertain future.
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