Meaning of "Old" by Paul Simon

The lyrics of "Old" by Paul Simon explore the theme of the passage of time and the inevitability of aging. Simon reminisces about various moments in his life, such as hearing the song "Peggy Sue" and smoking for the first time. These personal memories are juxtaposed with references to historical events like the Cold War and acts of genocide, symbolizing the broader passage of time and the cycle of life. Simon acknowledges that while many things change and evolve, the music of Buddy Holly (referenced by the line "Buddy Holly still goes on") endures, even if his catalog had been sold. This highlights the timeless quality of certain cultural artifacts and the power of music to transcend time.

The lyrics also touch upon the celebration of religious figures like Jesus, Buddha, and Mohammed, emphasizing their eternal wisdom and the longevity of their teachings. Simon acknowledges the age of these religious texts (the Bible and the Koran) and refers to them as "the greatest story ever told." By mentioning these religious figures, Simon suggests that there are certain aspects of human existence that remain constant regardless of the passage of time.

Simon then delves into the concept of the age of the universe, stating estimates of 13-14 billion years. By juxtaposing this immense timescale with the relatively short existence of the human race (2.7 million years), Simon emphasizes the insignificance of individual human lives in the grand scheme of things. He suggests that, in comparison to the age of God, who "made the mold," humans are fleeting and transient.

Overall, the song expresses a sense of awe and reflection regarding the passage of time and the concept of aging. Simon suggests that while everything around us ages and changes, there are certain aspects of our existence that endure and have a timeless quality. By combining personal memories with references to historical and religious events, Simon creates a tapestry of time, highlighting the universal experience of aging and the search for meaning in the face of impermanence.