Lyrics: Hej Gamle Man
Han står på torget varje dag En vänlig gammal man Hans hår är lite grånat Under mössans röda band Med blanka knappar I sin rock Och bössan I sin hand Han vet nog gänska väl Vad vi vill fråga om ibland Hej gamle man Kan du visa oss den väg som vi ska gå För att få komma dit Som vi vill nå Hej gamle man Kanske är det vi som gör nå't fel ändå Du har ju allt som vi Har svårt att få Han verkar kanske trött ibland Vem skulle väl rå med Att lysa upp en väg för nå'n Som aldrig kunnat se Men trots att han har stått där nu I alla dessa år Så verkar det på honom Som han kommit dit igår Hej gamle man Kan du visa oss den väg som vi ska gå För att få komma dit Som vi vill nå Hej gamle man Kanske är det vi som gör nå't fel ändå Du har ju allt som vi Har svårt att få Hej gamle man Kan du visa oss den väg som vi ska gå För att få komma dit Som vi vill nå Hej gamle man Kanske är det vi som gör nå't fel ändå Du har ju allt som vi Har svårt att få La la la la...
Understanding “Hej Gamle Man”: A Song of Guidance and Reflection
An Ode to Wisdom in Simplicity
“Hej Gamle Man” (“Hello Old Man”) is a song that gently paints a scene of a familiar figure in a town square—a kind, elderly man who stands as a silent observer of daily life. Through vivid imagery, the lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and respect for the wisdom that comes with age. The old man’s grey hair, his uniform adorned with shiny buttons, and the collection box in his hand suggest a life dedicated to service, possibly a veteran or a community figure. He stands as a symbol of stability amid the hustle and uncertainty of daily existence.
Searching for Direction and Meaning
The recurring refrain—”Can you show us the way we should go, to get where we want to be?”—reflects a universal longing for guidance. The younger generation looks up to the old man, hoping he possesses the answers to life’s biggest questions. Yet, there is a humble admission of their own shortcomings: “Perhaps it is us who are doing something wrong.” The song suggests that the old man has achieved a sense of peace and fulfillment that the younger ones find elusive, highlighting the gap between generations and the timeless pursuit of happiness and meaning.
Resilience and Timelessness
Despite years of standing in the same place, the old man never seems weary of his role. The lyrics muse on his ability to “light up a path for someone who has never been able to see,” underlining not just wisdom but compassion and resilience. His presence is both grounding and inspiring, reminding listeners that true contentment often lies in simple, steadfast acts and a generous heart.
Song Credits
Song: Hej Gamle Man
Artists: ABBA (as Björn & Benny, Agnetha & Anni-Frid)
Songwriters: Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson
Release Year: 1970
Label: Polar Music