Goodbye Stranger Lyrics

Lyric discussion by BarryOmaha 

Cover art for Goodbye Stranger lyrics by Supertramp

I agree that the song was written to be about a one-night stand, but in retrospect, it seems to foretell 9/11.

"It was an early morning yesterday I was up before the dawn And I really have enjoyed my stay But I must be moving on"

The planes used in the attack were hijacked early in the morning on Sept. 11. The attackers believed they were moving on to an afterlife.

"But I have to have things my own way To keep me in my youth"

Extremists have rigid views, especially concerning the things they are willing to die for. Of course, if one dies young, he's young forever.

"Just the thought of those sweet ladies Sends a shiver through my veins"

Islamic extremists usually are able to go through with suicide attacks because of the promise of 72 virgins ("those sweet ladies") in the afterlife

"And I will go on shining Shining like brand new I'll never look behind me My troubles will be few"

Paradise, the afterlife

"Goodbye stranger it's been nice Hope you find your paradise Tried to see your point of view Hope your dreams will all come true"

This represents the innocence of America before the attack (speaking from her perspective). The extremist is merely a stranger, and America hopes he finds his paradise (afterlife). America doesn't understand his point of view, and in her innocent ignorant bliss, allows him in the nation and even provides him with flying lessons.

"You can laugh at my behavior That'll never bother me Say the devil is my savior But I don't pay no heed"

In the a culture completely different from his own, the stranger often encounters others laughing at his differences. He claims it doesn't bother him. In the immediate aftermath, his deed will be viewed as the work of Satan. Again, he doesn't care.

"And I will go on shining Shining like brand new I'll never look behind me My troubles will be few"

He doesn't care because he is going to paradise in the afterlife.