Meaning of "The Boy From The Chemist Is Here To See You" by Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

The lyrics of "The Boy From The Chemist Is Here To See You" explore the theme of accountability and the inevitability of facing the consequences of one's actions. The imagery of ghosts returning to haunt the protagonist symbolizes unresolved guilt and the burden of past wrongs. The references to the boy from the chemist and the girl who loved the protagonist serve as reminders of the people and relationships that have been neglected or mistreated. The repeated refrain of "you should have run whilst you had time" emphasizes the idea that running away from one's mistakes is not a solution, as the past will always catch up. The song ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and facing the ghosts of the past in order to find peace and closure.