About the song
Neil Young’s “Old Man” is a timeless classic that speaks to the universal themes of aging, mortality, and the search for meaning in life. Written in 1972, the song was inspired by a real-life encounter with an elderly caretaker on Young’s ranch in Northern California. The song’s narrator, a young man, engages in a conversation with the old man, exploring their shared experiences and the wisdom that comes with age.
The song begins with the narrator asking the old man about his life, and the old man responds with a series of poignant reflections on his past and present. He talks about his love for the land, his family, and his work, and he expresses his gratitude for the simple pleasures of life. The old man also shares his fears and anxieties about death, but he ultimately concludes that life is a gift to be cherished.
Throughout the song, Young uses vivid imagery and evocative language to paint a picture of the old man’s world. The song’s melody is simple and haunting, and it perfectly captures the emotional depth of the lyrics.
“Old Man” is a powerful and moving song that has resonated with audiences for generations. It is a reminder of the importance of human connection, the value of wisdom and experience, and the beauty of life in all its stages.
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Lyrics
Old man, look at my life
I’m a lot like you were
Old man, look at my life
I’m a lot like you were
Old man, look at my life
Twenty four and there’s so much more
Live alone in a paradise
That makes me think of two
Love lost, such a cost
Give me things that don’t get lost
Like a coin that won’t get tossed
Rolling home to you
Old man, take a look at my life, I’m a lot like you
I need someone to love me the whole day through
Ah, one look in my eyes and you can tell that’s true
Lullabies, look in your eyes
Run around the same old town
Doesn’t mean that much to me
To mean that much to you
I’ve been first and last
Look at how the time goes past
But I’m all alone at last
Rolling home to you
Old man, take a look at my life, I’m a lot like you
I need someone to love me the whole day through
Ah, one look in my eyes and you can tell that’s true
Old man, look at my life
I’m a lot like you were
Old man, look at my life
I’m a lot like you were
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