Song meaning of Hello My Old Friend by Electric Light Orchestra

The lyrics of "Hello My Old Friend" by Electric Light Orchestra paint a nostalgic picture of industrial landscapes and urban decay, evoking a bittersweet sense of longing and remembrance for a bygone era. The imagery of cooling towers, factory gates, sad canals, and broken windows reflects the gritty reality of industrialized cities, while the reference to "skinny dogs and beer crates" and "pigeons coo in garden sheds" adds a touch of humanity to the industrial setting.

The repeated refrain of "Hello, my old friend" could signify a sense of familiarity and attachment to a place that has seen better days. The song seems to capture the conflicting emotions of fondness and farewell towards a declining industrial town, with the chorus changing to "Bye bye, my old friend" towards the end, suggesting an acceptance of moving on from the past.

Overall, the song conveys a poignant message about the ephemeral nature of time and the inevitability of change, while also acknowledging the beauty and significance of places that hold a special place in our memories.