Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “When The Ship Comes In” by The Chieftains
When The Ship Comes In by The Chieftains is a song of hope for the future. It is written from the perspective of someone looking out to sea, praying for the arrival of a ship that will bring love and peace to the world. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and anticipation, with the narrator dreaming of a better day ahead.
The title of the song is a metaphor for better days coming, as a ship coming into the harbor symbolizes a time of renewal and growth. The narrator thinks of the ship as a beacon of hope, bringing with it opportunity and possibilities. He imagines an incredible sight of the ship with its sails billowing in the wind, illuminated by the morning sun and beckoning the listener to come aboard and set sail for a brighter future.
The narrator encourages the listener to “build a home for everyone,” a metaphor for creating a place of refuge and acceptance in the face of hatred and oppression. He hopes that in this home, everyone can find love and acceptance regardless of their skin color, gender, sexuality, or any other differences. He sings of a future where “all of God’s children will have a place in the sun.” In this home of mutual respect, people can be free to pursue their dreams without fear of bigotry and discrimination.
When The Ship Comes In is a song of hope and optimism for a better tomorrow. It is a reminder that no matter the current situation, there is always hope that things will improve. The narrator’s faith in a better future is a powerful reminder that we can all strive to create a more inclusive, peaceful world.