Song meaning of Old Habits Reprise by Mick Jagger & Dave Stewart

The song "Old Habits Reprise" by Mick Jagger and Dave Stewart speaks about the struggles of breaking away from toxic patterns and relationships. The lyrics showcase the inner conflict and vulnerability of the narrator, who thought they had moved on but finds themselves still entangled in old habits.

The opening lines suggest a sense of resilience and quick recovery, but the mention of being half-delirious and the comparison to a ghost walking through walls implies a haunting presence. This can be interpreted as the lingering memories and emotions associated with a past relationship or addiction.

The repetition of the phrase "Old habits die hard" emphasizes the difficulty of letting go and moving on. The comparison to old soldiers fading away implies the lasting impact of these habits, much like the lasting effects of war on soldiers. The reference to November rain further adds to the imagery of pain and struggle.

The lyrics also touch upon the lack of communication and the narrator's attempt to distance themselves by blocking calls. However, it is clear that they still harbor intense feelings and find it hard to let go. The desperation and internal struggle are evident in lines like "I can't give you up, can't leave you alone."

Overall, the song conveys a message about the resilience of old habits and the difficulty of breaking free from toxic patterns, while also capturing the lingering pain and internal conflict that come with such experiences.