Hanging Around

Ghost's song 'Hanging Around' paints a vivid picture of urban life, capturing the sense of aimlessness and disconnection that can pervade city living. The lyrics introduce us to various characters, each seemingly lost in their own world, yet united by their shared state of inertia. The 'big girl in the red dress' and the 'hustlers big and burly' are all depicted as just 'hanging around,' suggesting a lack of purpose or direction. This recurring phrase underscores the theme of stagnation and the feeling of being stuck in a routine or environment that offers little fulfillment.

The song also touches on themes of escapism and detachment. The reference to 'Christ' telling his mother not to worry because he's 'high above the ground' can be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking solace or escape from the harsh realities of urban life. This could be through physical means, such as drugs or alcohol, or through mental detachment, where one becomes numb to their surroundings. The imagery of the 'monkey on his shoulder' further emphasizes this, symbolizing burdens or addictions that weigh people down, yet they continue to 'hang around' without making any significant changes.

Cultural references, such as the mention of the Coleherne, a famous gay pub in London, add another layer to the song. This setting, known for its leather-clad patrons and steamy atmosphere, highlights the diversity and complexity of urban life. However, even in this vibrant environment, the characters' eyes are 'on the ground,' indicating a pervasive sense of disconnection and introspection. Ghost's 'Hanging Around' thus serves as a poignant commentary on the ennui and existential struggles that can accompany city living, where people are physically close yet emotionally distant, all just 'hanging around.'