The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
Looking out, empty streets
Could’ve been forced to talk
Gather ‘round, forced to leave
Could’ve been lost in stock
Never hear the sound
Never hear the sound
Why don’t we call this what we know it is?
Why don’t we call this what we know it is?
Put the ghost to bed
Could’ve been forced to talk
Gather ‘round, forced to leave
Could’ve been lost in stock
Never hear the sound
Never hear the sound
Why don’t we call this what we know it is?
Why don’t we call this what we know it is?
Put the ghost to bed
Lyrics submitted by DannyJC13
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I believe that this song is about a couple who are just going through the motions. Both of them know that their relationship is going nowhere, that what they say to one another no longer has any meaning. In the chorus, he sings, "Why don't we call this what we know it is. Put the ghost to bed." I believe he means that they both need to break up and call it quits. The "ghost" in question, being their dead relationship.
Both are afraid to admit it, and have become comfortable in their own misery with one another. He just flat out throws it out there. And the fact that this song has the least lyrics of any of their other songs, only adds to the situation this couple is in, having very little to say to one another. This is one of my favorite Lo Moon songs, and I can relate to it very well, from past relationships. It's sad and haunting, just like an actual ending of a relationship.