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American Pie and Don McLean FAQ

Got a question about Don McLean's legendary hit "American Pie," its history, Don's own thoughts on the song, and the meaning of those strange lyrics? Look no further... frequently asked questions about Don McLean's "American Pie," answered by your Oldies Guide here at About.com!

What is Don McLean's hit song "American Pie" about in general?
What is Don McLean's hit song "American Pie" about in general?

What's the history of Don McLean's "American Pie"?
What's the history of Don McLean's "American Pie"?

What's the meaning of Verse 1 ("A long long time ago")?
What's the meaning of Verse 1 ("A long long time ago")?

What's the meaning of the chorus ("Bye, bye, Miss American Pie")?
What's the meaning of the chorus ("Bye, bye, Miss American Pie")?

What's the meaning of Verse 2 ("Did you write the book of love")?
What's the meaning of Verse 2 ("Did you write the book of love")?

What's the meaning of Verse 3 ("Now for ten years we've been on our own")?
What's the meaning of Verse 3 ("Now for ten years we've been on our own")?

What's the meaning of Verse 4 ("Helter Skelter in a summer swelter")?
What's the meaning of Verse 4 ("Helter Skelter in a summer swelter")?

What's the meaning of Verse 5 ("And there we were, all in one place")?
What's the meaning of Verse 5 ("And there we were, all in one place")?

What's the meaning of Verse 6 ("I met a girl who sang the blues")?
What's the meaning of Verse 6 ("I met a girl who sang the blues")?

What has Don McLean himself had to say about the song?
What has Don McLean himself had to say about the song?

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