The first verse begins with: "Destination outward bound, I turn to see the northern lights behind the wing..." suggesting a different meaning.

Lyricist Betty Thatcher-Newsinger wrote about the feelings of loneliness and separation Haslam was experiencing whilst she was on tour, based on the personal conversations between the two.

Earlier songs such as "Ocean Gypsy" and "Trip to the Fair" were similarly founded in Haslam's life experiences and friendships, the latter also involving Wood.

[2] "Northern Lights" entered the UK singles charts on 15 July 1978 and remained there for 11 weeks, peaking at No. 10.

[5] Renaissance performed "Northern Lights" live on The Mike Douglas Show on 4 May 1978 in the U.S.[6] The single was featured on Top of the Pops on 13 July 1978,[7] and 10 August 1978.