Not a word was spoken. The church bells all were broken.

As you can imagine, over the years I have been asked many times to discuss and explain my song "American Pie." I have never discussed the lyrics, but have admitted to the Holly reference in the opening stanzas. You will find many interpretations of my lyrics but none of them by me. You will find many “interpretations” of my lyrics but none of them by me. Isn’t this fun? Sorry to leave you all on your own like this but long ago I realized that songwriters should make their statements and move on, maintaining a dignified silence.

The Byrds flew off the fallout shelter, eight miles high and falling fast.

Over the years I've had more and more of an association with Nashville.

When people ask me what 'American Pie' means, I tell them it means I don't ever have to work again if I don't want to.

And when no hope was left inside on that starry, starry night, you took your life as lovers often do. But I could have told you, Vincent, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you.

Devoid of all romance, the music plays and everyone must dance. I'm bowing out.