Tom Waits’ “Ol’ 55” is a soulful ballad that captures the essence of a road trip at dawn. The song weaves a tale of nostalgia, freedom, and a tinge of regret. Waits takes us on a journey in his old ’55 car, sharing his feelings of elation and reflection. The lyrics suggest a farewell, possibly to a lover, and the ensuing ride serves as a metaphor for moving on yet cherishing the moments passed. Waits expresses a yearning to hold onto the night just a little longer, underlining the song’s theme of savoring life’s fleeting moments. The song isn’t about a specific person but more about the universal experience of cherishing memories while embracing the journey ahead.
Ever been on a road trip as the sun begins to rise, feeling a mix of euphoria and nostalgia? “Ol’ 55” captures that exact moment, taking you on a lyrical journey filled with vivid imagery and deep emotions.
“Ol’ 55” Lyrics Meaning
The song commences with a simple countdown, setting a laid-back tone. Waits describes time flying by as he jumps into his old ’55, a car that seems to hold sentimental value. The slow pull away and the feeling of holiness hint at a reluctance to leave, a desire to linger in the moment.
As the sun rises, he introduces Lady Luck, personifying his car or perhaps the journey itself. The mention of freeway, cars, and trucks paints a picture of the open road, a space of freedom and movement. The fading stars and leading parade add a layer of nostalgia, as he wishes he could stay in the moment just a bit longer.
Despite the early hour and lack of warning, Waits is compelled to be on his way, suggesting an unavoidable farewell. The passing trucks and flashing lights create a sense of urgency, contrasting with the earlier tranquility. Yet, there’s a hint of contentment, a peace with moving on, as he reflects on leaving a place—perhaps a metaphor for leaving a person or a phase of life.
The repetition of lyrics emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the constant push and pull between holding on and letting go. Waits captures the bittersweetness of this dance, leaving listeners with a sense of both loss and appreciation.
The Story Behind “Ol’ 55”
Tom Waits wrote “Ol’ 55” early in his career, encapsulating a moment of transition and reflection. At the time, Waits was navigating the music scene, trying to find his voice and place in the industry. The old ’55, a stand-in for his own experiences, represents both the comfort of the known and the inevitability of change.
Waits has always had a knack for storytelling, and in “Ol’ 55,” he turns a simple car ride at dawn into a metaphor for life’s journey. The song is less about the destination and more about savoring the journey, acknowledging the fleeting moments of beauty and connection.
By intertwining themes of travel, love, and time, Waits invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, urging them to appreciate the here and now. In writing this song, he not only captured a universal experience but also solidified his own place in the world of music, marking the beginning of a storied career.