The song "Wishing All These Old Things Were New" by Merle Haggard is a reflection on the passing of time and the desire to relive old memories. Haggard sings about watching old friends do drugs and feeling the urge to do the same, but also acknowledging that those days are long gone. He also observes young men going to jail, and the media's fascination with their downfall. The chorus of the song expresses a longing for the good times of the past, such as the roaring 20s and the 80s, before everything "fell through." Haggard recognizes that he is getting older and the world is changing around him, and he laments the loss of the traditions and experiences that he grew up with. Overall, the song is a nostalgic look back at the past, with a sense of sadness and regret for what has been lost. It is a reminder to cherish the memories and experiences that we have, as they may not always be there in the future.
