Meaning of 'Come in Stranger'

by Johnny Cash

Interpretation

The song lyrics "Come in Stranger" by Johnny Cash is about a person returning home after a long absence. The speaker of the song, possibly his lover or wife, is happy to see him again and invites him to come in. She is glad that he is back and expresses her joy by saying, "Come in stranger, it's good to have you home." She immediately recognizes him when she sees his dog wagging its tail. However, she is slightly disappointed that he didn't give notice beforehand.

The speaker wants to know all about the places he has been and how long it will be until he leaves again. She hopes it will be a long time before he leaves again and emphasizes that she has missed him. She says, "Come in stranger, I know you're tired from all your miles. Just sit in your comfortable chair and tell me about the places you've been."

She also emphasizes how much she misses him when he is gone. She can't sleep and wonders where he could be. She would do anything to have him with her. She says, "Come in stranger, oh how I need you when you're away. I pace up and down and watch the door. When I'm lying awake, I wonder where you could be. I would give anything to have you here with me. I feel so lonely when I'm alone."

Finally, she asks him to spend enough time with her so that he is not a stranger all the time. She wants him to stay and connect with her. She longs for his presence and doesn't want him to leave again.

The song lyrics "Come in Stranger" express the longing for love, closeness, and familiarity when one has been separated for a long time. It is a song that highlights the emotional connection between two people and emphasizes the importance of coming together and sharing.