The Old Days Are Gone

Gary Jules' song 'The Old Days Are Gone' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, as they call back to 'old days and memories' that are now out of reach. Jules suggests that while these memories are cherished, they belong to a past that can no longer be reclaimed. The repeated refrain 'The old days are gone, hallelujah' serves as both a lament and a celebration, acknowledging the loss while also embracing the new possibilities that the future holds.

The imagery in the song is rich and evocative, painting pictures of simpler times and the search for meaning. References to the Fourth of July and rural settings evoke a sense of Americana, a longing for a time when life seemed more straightforward. The lines 'Searching for something to save / Something to bury, something to fly' suggest a quest for purpose and a desire to hold onto or let go of certain aspects of the past. This duality is a central theme in the song, as it grapples with the tension between holding onto memories and moving forward.

Jules also touches on the theme of autonomy and choice. In the past, 'your somewheres were chosen for you,' implying a lack of control over one's destiny. The present and future, however, offer new opportunities for self-determination. The repeated phrase 'Way over the water / Tomorrow is coming to you' suggests a sense of hope and anticipation for what lies ahead. The song ultimately encourages listeners to embrace change and find solace in the fact that while the old days are gone, new days bring their own form of hallelujah.