"Half Past France" is a song written by John Cale, Welsh musician and founding member of the Velvet Underground. The song is from his 1975 album "Slow Dazzle." The lyrics depict Cale's journey on a train from Dunkirk to Paris, where he observes the sleeping passengers, while he remains awake. He mentions the contrast in climate between Norway and France, expressing the longing to see his son again. Cale reflects on how things are different in France compared to his homeland, noting that it is not as cold, and mentions Dundee as a destination. The mention of Old Hollweg indicates a familiarity with the route, possibly a train conductor or guide who knows his way around. As the song progresses, Cale expresses a feeling of detachment and indifference towards people, mentioning that he no longer fears the darkness and that the challenges he faces are trivialized. He suggests that he is no longer concerned about the well-being of others, stating that people have always bored him. The meaning of the song can be interpreted as a reflection on Cale's emotional journey, possibly grappling with personal loss and disconnection. The mentions of different places and the train journey itself serve as metaphors for Cale's inner conflicts and distance from his son and homeland. Overall, "Half Past France" encapsulates a sense of detachment, longing, and introspection, as Cale contemplates his own state of mind and the transient nature of life's experiences.
