Meaning of "I've Loved These Days" by Billy Joel

"I've Loved These Days" lyrically explores the theme of indulgence and the temporary nature of a lavish lifestyle. The song paints a picture of a life filled with excess, where time is stretched out leisurely and nights are spent in luxury. The mention of silken robes, chandeliers, and fine champagne evokes a sense of opulence and sophistication. However, the lyrics also reveal the emptiness and hollowness accompanying this lifestyle, as the narrator acknowledges that they're "going wrong" and "gaining weight" and have to change their ways. The use of phrases like "drown our doubts in dry champagne" and "soothe our souls with fine cocaine" implies that these indulgences are used as distractions or escape mechanisms from the harsh realities of life. Despite the recognition of the need for change, the narrator expresses a nostalgia and deep affection for these days. It can be interpreted as a bittersweet admission that while this lifestyle may not be sustainable, there is a certain allure and enjoyment in the moments of excess and luxury. The conflicting emotions of recognizing the need for a transformation while also reminiscing about the pleasures of the past create a poignant and introspective tone in the song.