Train – “Meet Virginia” Lyrics Meaning

“Meet Virginia” by Train is a song that celebrates individuality and the beauty of being unconventional. The song vividly depicts Virginia, a woman who defies societal norms. She’s not your typical heroine; she doesn’t wear dresses, her hair is a mess, and she’s unapologetically herself. The song is a tribute to those who embrace their unique traits and live life on their own terms. It’s about finding beauty in the unconventional and the power of self-acceptance. Pat Monahan crafts a narrative, encouraging listeners to appreciate the uniqueness in themselves and others.

Curious about the intriguing lady who smokes a pack a day and wears high heels while exercising? Let’s unravel the story of Virginia, an emblem of individuality and defiance against norms.


“Meet Virginia” Lyrics Meaning

The song begins with a striking image of Virginia, who is far from the typical societal image of a woman. She doesn’t own a dress, her hair is always a mess, indicating her indifference to conventional beauty standards. The line, “If you catch her stealin’, she won’t confess,” speaks to a rebellious spirit, unafraid of societal judgment.

The chorus, “Meet Virginia,” followed by descriptions of her unique habits like loving babies and surprises and wearing high heels during exercise, further establishes her as a non-conformist. This chorus is not just an introduction to Virginia but also an invitation to embrace her quirks and her defiance of norms.

“Her daddy wrestles alligators, Mama works on carburetors.” These lines paint Virginia’s background as unconventional, suggesting that her unique traits are a product of her environment. The familial mention also hints at a deeper story, perhaps shaping her outlook on life.

The repetition of “Meet Virginia” throughout the song serves as a constant reminder of her presence and her impact. The singer’s fascination with her is evident, and he seems to find a reflection of himself in her. This is highlighted in lines like “Well, here she is again on the phone, Just like me hates to be alone.”

“She only drinks coffee at midnight, when the moment is not right,” further emphasizes her tendency to go against the grain. Her confidence is described as tragic, yet her intuition is magical, suggesting a complex character with depth and internal conflicts.

The Story Behind “Meet Virginia”

The song, released in the late 1990s, came at a time when Train was still carving out its identity in the music world. Monahan, reflecting on his own experiences and observations, sought to capture the essence of an unconventional character that defied society’s typical standards.

Virginia, as a character, is not just a random creation but a symbolic representation of individuality and the beauty of being different. Monahan’s lyrics rebel against the cookie-cutter images often portrayed in media and society. By painting Virginia in such vivid and unconventional traits, he encourages listeners to find beauty in the unusual and the importance of self-acceptance. The song’s narrative is a tapestry of real-life experiences, observations, and a creative imagination, making Virginia a timeless character who resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place in a conformist society.

The lyrics’ ability to resonate with a broad audience speaks to Monahan’s skill as a songwriter. His portrayal of Virginia as both relatable and aspirational is a testament to his understanding of the human experience. The song is not just about Virginia; it’s about every person who has ever dared to be different and embraced their true self despite societal expectations.