"Ghost Story" is a song written by Lou Reed, John Cale, and Nico, who were part of the influential band Velvet Underground. The lyrics of the song are abstract and open to interpretation, but they convey a sense of melancholy and a haunting atmosphere. The song starts by setting a specific time and contrasting it with the narrator's emotional state. It could be interpreted as a feeling of being out of sync with the world or experiencing a disconnect with reality. The mention of the skin on the wrists turning grey suggests a sense of despair or a deterioration of vitality. The verse then mentions someone wishing them good luck, but their attitudes constantly change. This could represent the unpredictability of relationships or perhaps a lack of stability in their lives. The mention of a trembling box in the corner adds to the uneasiness and fear in the scene. The next verse introduces a woman who buys a new stomach, which seems metaphorical. It could imply some sort of transformation or alteration, possibly to escape a tough situation. The passing of old matches, sentries, and millionaires may symbolize a transient and fleeting existence, filled with different people or experiences. The chorus mentions someone named Gallagher constantly repeating the same old thing. This could be a reference to a person stuck in repetitive patterns or a reminder of mundane routines. The mention of empty cups highlights tiredness and hunger, suggesting a feeling of emptiness or dissatisfaction. The following lines mention having Holland on the run, which may allude to escapism or fleeing from reality. Forgetting a person from Liverpool made in Detroit, along with the mention of an old man and his gun, could represent leaving behind certain memories or escaping from a past filled with violence or pain. The song ends by mentioning lions about, wasting away on advice. This could imply the presence of authority figures or influences draining their energy or causing confusion. The mention of haunting and the impact it will have on one's life suggests that the experiences described throughout the song will leave a lasting impact or haunt the individual. Overall, "Ghost Story" by Lou Reed, John Cale, and Nico is a cryptic and atmospheric song that explores themes of disconnection, repetition, escapism, and haunting experiences. The lyrics invite listeners to interpret the meaning based on their own experiences and perceptions.
