The song is a sentimental ballad featuring a dying protagonist bidding a final farewell to loved ones:

The lyrics are structured as a series of goodbyes to a childhood friend, a father figure, and a loved one named Michelle.

It became the 1999 UK Christmas Number One , beating out competition to secure the top spot during the holiday week.

While the Westlife version is known for its polished pop sound, the original Jacques Brel version was more sardonic, including a farewell to a wife who had been unfaithful. Legacy & Music Video