Lyrics: Hey Hey Helen by ABBA
So at last you're free It's the way you wanted it to be And the price you paid To become a woman of today Is it worth the pain to see the children cry Does it hurt when they ask for Daddy Hey hey Helen Now you live on your own Hey hey Helen Can you make it alone (Yes you can) So you're free at last And beginning to forget the past Does it make you sad When you think about the life you ha-ha-had But you're right, you had to take a second chance So you fight to find your freedom Hey hey Helen Now you live on your own Hey hey Helen Can you make it alone Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) What's the matter with you Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) Don't you know what to do (Yes you do) (Ahah, yes you do yes you do) (Ahah, yes you do yes you do) Hey hey Helen Now you live on your own Hey hey Helen Can you make it alone Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) What's the matter with you Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) Don't you know what to do Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) Now you live on your own Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen) [fade]
Finding Freedom and Facing Reality
“Hey Hey Helen” by ABBA is a powerful song that delves into the emotional complexities of independence, single parenthood, and personal transformation. The lyrics begin with a declaration of newfound freedom: “So at last you’re free / It’s the way you wanted it to be.” However, this liberation comes with a cost, as the narrator questions whether it’s worth the pain, especially when children are affected by the absence of their father.
The Struggles of Starting Over
The song continues to explore Helen’s journey as she adjusts to life on her own. There’s a mix of empathy and challenge in the repeated refrain: “Hey hey Helen, now you live on your own, can you make it alone?” The supportive “Yes you can” suggests encouragement, but the verses also acknowledge the sadness and difficulty of moving on from the past. The lyrics recognize the courage it takes to start over and the internal struggle to balance newfound freedom with the emotional toll of change.
Empowerment and Self-Discovery
Despite the doubts and lingering questions, “Hey Hey Helen” ultimately carries a message of empowerment. The lines “Don’t you know what to do? (Yes you do)” offer reassurance and validation. The song recognizes Helen’s strength and ability to navigate her new reality, highlighting the resilience needed to overcome personal and societal expectations.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1975
Label: Polar Music