Introduction:
“Ships That Don’t Come In” is a poignant country song originally recorded by Joe Diffie in 1992, reaching the Top 5 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart. Written by Dave Gibson and Paul Nelson, the song delves into life’s hardships and unfulfilled dreams through a reflective dialogue between two men in a bar. Together, they raise a glass to the struggles of people who often go unnoticed: veterans, the homeless, and others who face life’s adversities without achieving their hopes. The lyrics capture a sense of shared sorrow and resilience, resonating deeply with listeners across generations.
Toby Keith, an admirer of Diffie’s work, covered the song as his final studio recording shortly before his passing in 2024. This version was released on Hixtape: Vol. 3: Difftape, a tribute project led by country artist Hardy that features contemporary artists like Luke Combs and Reba McEntire paying homage to Diffie, who passed in 2020. Keith’s rendition added a layer of homage and legacy, further embedding the song’s themes of strength amid hardship and honoring those who endure difficult circumstances without reward.
This song’s enduring impact is attributed to its universally relatable themes and emotional depth. Both Diffie’s and Keith’s interpretations underscore the lasting influence of country music as a storytelling medium for life’s bittersweet realities. Through “Ships That Don’t Come In,” listeners are reminded to reflect on life’s missed opportunities while appreciating the strength to persevere in the face of life’s challenges.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Ships That Don’t Come In”
I could tell he’d had a tough life
By the way he sat and stared
And me, I’d come to push and shove
So I pulled up a chair.We talked of roads untraveled
We talked of love untrue
Of strings that come unraveled
We were kings and kindred fools
And just when I’d hit bottom
That old man raised his glass
And said at least we had our chances
There’s those who never have.So here’s to all the soldiers
Who have ever died in vain
The insane locked up in themselves
The homeless down on Main
To those who stand on empty shores
And spit against the wind
And those who wait forever
For ships that don’t come in.He said it’s only life’s illusions
That bring us to this bar
To pick up these old crutches
And compare each other’s scars
‘Cuz the things we’re calling heartache
Hell, they’re hardly worth our time
We bitch about a dollar
When there’s those without a dime.And as he ordered one last round
He said I guess we can’t complain
God made life a gamble
And we’re still in the game.So here’s to all the soldiers
Who have ever died in vain
The insane locked up in themselves
The homeless down on Main
To those who stand on empty shores
And spit against the wind
And those who wait forever
For ships that don’t come in.