The lyrics depict an old man, feeding pigeons and reflecting on his life as he stands alone in his old age. His hair is white, his body worn, and his memory fading, but he is grateful for the kindness life has shown him, giving him time to dream and ponder by the seaside. Passersby avoid engaging with him, recognizing in his eyes a reminder of their own mortality.

Meaning of "Old Man's Song" by Tom Rush

"Old Man's Song" by Tom Rush explores the themes of aging, loneliness, and the passage of time. The old man in the lyrics symbolizes the inevitable progression of life, with the aging process leaving its marks of wisdom and wear on the body and mind. Despite his solitude and the loss of friends and memories, the old man finds solace in the simple act of feeding pigeons and observing the world around him. The indifference of those who pass by reflects society's discomfort with aging and mortality, as they shy away from confronting the reality that time is fleeting and that eventually, we all will face the same fate as the old man. The song serves as a poignant reminder to cherish the present moment and to acknowledge the beauty in the passing of time, even amidst its challenges and sorrows.