So Long

1 Oct 2020 · 5 min

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4:46

The piece is a lyrical narrative sung by a single speaker reflecting on a difficult upbringing and the bond with his father. It recounts moving north for work, living without comforts, and writing a country‑style song that declares a departure not just physically but emotionally – “so long, Dad.” The speaker repeatedly thanks his father for teaching right from wrong, providing a strong home, and working hard, while also mourning his absence after his death. The verses weave memories of childhood, forgotten moments, unfulfilled promises of travel, and shared activities like watching movies and singing. The refrain emphasizes gratitude, loss, and a reluctant farewell, ending with an unresolved “I won’t say goodbye, a long— you say so long.” The overall tone is nostalgic, bittersweet, and contemplative, highlighting themes of legacy, departure, memory, and the complex process of saying goodbye to a parent.

Chapters

I heard times were tough, but I was too young to know. So we went up north to find another line. We didn't have AC, it was the summertime. And we wrote a tune that was a country song. Said, I'm not just moving out, I'm moving on. So long, Dad, so long. You taught me right from wrong. Gave me a home where I could grow up strong. Always working hard so we could get along. Now you're gone. So long, Dad, so long. The years flew by like a bird in the sky. A moment we're here and then we disappear. And nobody knows what's gonna be. I'll call you tomorrow, we'll have to wait and see. So long, Dad, so long. You taught me right from wrong. Gave me a home where I could grow up strong. Always working hard so we could get along. Now you're gone, so long, Dad, so long. I sit and think about how much has been forgotten from childhood memories. And then the later years when we went And back to Queens, both of us chasing our dreams. I never really knew him for all the time we spent. Promised we'd travel, but we never went. Watching old movies, singing old songs. He never said goodbye, he always said So long, so long, Dad, so long. You taught me right from wrong, gave me a home where I could grow up strong. Always working hard so we could get along. Now you're gone. So long, Dad, so long. I won't say goodbye. A long— you say so long.