Hangin' Round

Lou Reed's song 'Hangin' Round' paints a vivid picture of various characters from his past, each embodying a different aspect of youthful rebellion and eccentricity. The song opens with Harry, a wealthy young man who dabbles in the occult, even going so far as to dig up his deceased father. This macabre act, combined with his mystical pursuits, suggests a search for meaning or power beyond the conventional, a common theme in the exploration of youth.

Next, we meet Jeanny, a spoiled young woman who indulges in smoking and casual sex. Her actions and attitude reflect a sense of entitlement and a desire to push boundaries, yet she is dismissed by the narrator as not being his 'kind.' This dismissal hints at a deeper disconnection or disillusionment with the reckless behaviors that once might have seemed appealing.

Cathy, the third character, is described in surreal terms, with her painted toes and dentures clamped to her nose. Her eccentricity and the breaking of her glasses when she speaks add a layer of absurdity to the narrative. The mention of 'angel dust' and a failed attempt to reach out for help through a phone call further underscores the chaotic and often destructive nature of these youthful escapades.

The recurring chorus, 'Oh, oh, oh, you keep hangin' round me, and I'm not so glad you found me,' serves as a lament for the persistence of these past influences. The narrator has moved on from these behaviors, yet they continue to linger, a haunting reminder of a time he has left behind. Reed's lyrics capture the tension between the allure of youthful rebellion and the desire to grow beyond it, making 'Hangin' Round' a poignant reflection on the ghosts of one's past.