Because the lyrics are poetic and somewhat vague, several theories have emerged over the decades:
: Some speculate it refers to the death of a former bandmate, though there is no official confirmation of this. The Official Video Style Electric Light Orchestra - Livin' Thing (Official Video)
: 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. Because the lyrics are poetic and somewhat vague,
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 . Despite the song's grand, cinematic sound, frontman has
: Others have interpreted the song as a call to protect the earth or whales, a theme reinforced when it was used in environmental campaigns.
: 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.
The "story" behind official video is primarily centered on the song's unexpected inspiration and the various interpretations that have followed it since its 1976 release. The True Inspiration