This song is more than likely a song of loss (particularly of love) and the sadness that comes with (nostalgia too). Basically, the singer tells the tale of losing a person he loved and how he remembers the little things. He begins with a general description of the place he is at. Some key words are Northern Line and Waterloo (combined with trains pulling out) here to get the location. Waterloo is the name of a train station in London and the Northern Line is a particular part of that train line. This song is obviously set in London, England. Waterloo has a double meaning though, it also means a great loss or to meet one's match (much like Napolean at his Waterloo). Another double meaning is trains pulling out. When a train pulls out someone is coming or going. In the case of this song...going. The chorus talks of the promises made like running forever (a relationship lasting forever). Obviously with half a return ticket in his pocket, he is unable to return to 'what was.' Also the memories and souvenirs further solidify the fact this song is about loss and remembrance. Also, when he says "I don't hear you" he is further showing that this person is no longer nearby or not around anymore. This is my take on this song. Very beautiful, very haunting.
This song is more than likely a song of loss (particularly of love) and the sadness that comes with (nostalgia too). Basically, the singer tells the tale of losing a person he loved and how he remembers the little things. He begins with a general description of the place he is at. Some key words are Northern Line and Waterloo (combined with trains pulling out) here to get the location. Waterloo is the name of a train station in London and the Northern Line is a particular part of that train line. This song is obviously set in London, England. Waterloo has a double meaning though, it also means a great loss or to meet one's match (much like Napolean at his Waterloo). Another double meaning is trains pulling out. When a train pulls out someone is coming or going. In the case of this song...going. The chorus talks of the promises made like running forever (a relationship lasting forever). Obviously with half a return ticket in his pocket, he is unable to return to 'what was.' Also the memories and souvenirs further solidify the fact this song is about loss and remembrance. Also, when he says "I don't hear you" he is further showing that this person is no longer nearby or not around anymore. This is my take on this song. Very beautiful, very haunting.