Because the lyrics are poetic and somewhat vague, several theories have emerged over the decades:
Despite the song's grand, cinematic sound, frontman has revealed that the "livin' thing" he initially wrote about was actually a bout of food poisoning .
: Others have interpreted the song as a call to protect the earth or whales, a theme reinforced when it was used in environmental campaigns.
: Lynne once joked that the lyrics were inspired by a bad holiday meal in Spain. He famously remarked, "I wouldn't want anyone to think it's about a bad paella on a Spanish holiday," but admitted the physical feeling influenced the song's early stages.
: This is the most persistent theory. Many listeners believe the "living thing" refers to an unborn child. Lynne has repeatedly denied this, stating it was never his intention to make a political or social statement.
: Some speculate it refers to the death of a former bandmate, though there is no official confirmation of this. The Official Video Style
Because the lyrics are poetic and somewhat vague, several theories have emerged over the decades:
Despite the song's grand, cinematic sound, frontman has revealed that the "livin' thing" he initially wrote about was actually a bout of food poisoning . Electric Light Orchestra - Livin' Thing (Official Video)
: Others have interpreted the song as a call to protect the earth or whales, a theme reinforced when it was used in environmental campaigns. Because the lyrics are poetic and somewhat vague,
: Lynne once joked that the lyrics were inspired by a bad holiday meal in Spain. He famously remarked, "I wouldn't want anyone to think it's about a bad paella on a Spanish holiday," but admitted the physical feeling influenced the song's early stages. He famously remarked, "I wouldn't want anyone to
: This is the most persistent theory. Many listeners believe the "living thing" refers to an unborn child. Lynne has repeatedly denied this, stating it was never his intention to make a political or social statement.
: Some speculate it refers to the death of a former bandmate, though there is no official confirmation of this. The Official Video Style
