“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a timeless classic written by Paul Simon and performed by Simon & Garfunkel in 1970. The song has sold over six million copies worldwide and is often regarded as Simon & Garfunkel’s signature song.
It has been covered by over 50 artists, including Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Johnny Cash. In fact, it became one of the most performed songs of the 20th century.
The song’s lyrics speak of a deep and unconditional love between two people, where one is willing to be there for the other in times of trouble and pain.
In this article, we will analyze the meaning behind the lyrics and explore why this song continues to resonate with so many people.
Table of Contents
Lyrics Interpretation
Before we delve into the story behind this song, let’s take a closer look at each verse of the lyrics.
Verse 1
“When you’re weary, feeling small, when tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all. I’m on your side, oh, when times get rough, and friends just can’t be found”
The first verse sets the tone for the entire song. The singer expresses his willingness to be there for his loved one when they are feeling down and out. The line “I’m on your side” emphasizes the depth of the singer’s loyalty and love for his partner.
The reference to “friends just can’t be found” suggests that sometimes in life, the people we usually rely on may not be there for us, but the love between two people can serve as a strong support system.
Chorus
“Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down, like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down”
The chorus is the most iconic part of the song, and it’s where the title comes from. The metaphor of a bridge over troubled water suggests that the singer is willing to serve as a support system for his loved one, no matter what kind of trouble they may be facing.
The repetition of “I will lay me down” emphasizes the singer’s willingness to be there for his loved one, even if it means sacrificing his own comfort.
Verse 2
“When you’re down and out, when you’re on the street, when evening falls so hard, I will comfort you. I’ll take your part, oh, when darkness comes, and pain is all around”
The second verse continues with the theme of unconditional love and support. The reference to being “down and out” and “on the street” suggests that the singer’s loved one may be going through a difficult time, perhaps even homelessness.
The line “when darkness comes and pain is all around” speaks to the singer’s willingness to be there for his partner during their darkest moments. The repeated “I will” in this verse and the first emphasizes the singer’s commitment to his partner.
Chorus
“Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down, like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down”
The chorus repeats again, emphasizing the strength of the metaphor and the depth of the singer’s love for his partner.
Verse 3
“Sail on silver girl, sail on by. Your time has come to shine, all your dreams are on their way. See how they shine. Oh, if you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind”
The third verse takes a slightly different turn, shifting the focus to the singer’s loved one. The line “sail on silver girl” suggests that the singer is addressing a woman, perhaps a young woman who is about to embark on a new chapter in her life.
The reference to “your time has come to shine” suggests that the woman is finally achieving her dreams and goals. The line “if you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind” suggests that the singer is willing to be there for his loved one as she sets out on this new journey.
Chorus
“Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind, like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind”
The final chorus repeats, emphasizing the comfort and support that the singer is willing to provide to his partner. The line “I will ease your mind” suggests that the singer’s love and support will help his loved one feel at peace during times of trouble.
True Meaning Behind “Bridge Over Troubled Water”
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a song that has stood the test of time since its release in 1970. It is a song that has been used as an anthem of hope and support in times of crisis and continues to resonate with people all over the world.
The song’s lyrics speak of a deep and unconditional love between two people, where one is willing to be there for the other in times of trouble and pain.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
The inspiration for “Bridge Over Troubled Water” came from the southern gospel group Swan Silvertones’ 1959 song “Oh Mary Don’t You Weep.” The line “I’ll be your bridge over deep water / If you trust in my name” inspired Paul Simon to write the song. Simon’s love for gospel music and chord changes also influenced the song’s style.
The Metaphor
The line “Like a bridge over troubled water” is a metaphor for someone living through a trying time in their life. The song emphasizes the importance of having someone to rely on during difficult times. The line “I will lay me down” references the sacrifices and perseverance one must have to find a way through difficulty.
The Third Verse
The third verse takes a slightly different turn, focusing on a girl, later revealed as a reference to Simon’s then-wife Peggy Harper. The verse speaks of her dreams and how they are coming true.
The line “See how they shine” suggests the potential for greatness and success. The final line “Oh, if you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind” emphasizes the importance of having someone to support and encourage you in your pursuit of your dreams.
The Song’s Relevance to the Times
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” was written in 1969, during a tumultuous time in American history. The country was grappling with the Vietnam War, the presidency of Richard Nixon, and the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy in 1968.
The song spoke to the turmoil of the times and continues to adapt to more recent times, used as an uplifting anthem around more tragic events.
In 2005, Simon & Garfunkel reunited to sing the song to help raise money for those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
In 2017, the song was also remixed by British artists for the Artists for Grenfell, following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in London.
The Enduring Impact
As Simon and Garfunkel’s relationship began to fray preceding their 1970 breakup, Simon began to experience regret for allowing Garfunkel to sing it solo. However, the song has become an enduring classic and has touched the hearts of millions around the world.
It has been covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. The song’s message of hope and support resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds and has become a source of comfort during difficult times.
Various Covers
Here are some of the most notable covers:
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin recorded her gospel-infused version of the song in 1970 during the sessions for her album “Young, Gifted and Black.” She debuted the song on stage during her landmark Fillmore West concert in San Francisco in 1971.
Franklin’s version of the song was later released as a single and became a massive hit, reaching number one on the US R&B chart and number six on the pop chart. She won the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her rendition of the song.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley recorded his version of the song in 1970, and it was released on his album “That’s the Way It Is.” He continued to perform the song throughout his live shows, and his version was highly praised by music critics.
Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed
Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed recorded an instrumental version of the song and released it on their 1970 album “Me & Jerry.” Their version of the song won the Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance.
Linda Clifford
Linda Clifford released an up-tempo disco version of “Bridge over Troubled Water” on her album “Let Me Be Your Woman” in 1979. The song has a highly original “Brazilian cuica on a disco beat” break, and it became a hit on the US disco chart, reaching number 11.
Other Covers
Other notable covers of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” include Johnny Cash and Fiona Apple’s version, which was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals in 2003, and Clay Aiken’s version, which topped the charts in Canada and New Zealand. The song has also been covered in Cantonese and by Australian singer Dami Im.
Conclusion
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a timeless anthem of hope and support in times of crisis. The song’s gospel-inspired elements and metaphorical lyrics speak to the importance of having someone to rely on during difficult times.
The song’s impact on society has been significant, with its message of hope and support resonating with people of all ages and backgrounds. It continues to be an enduring classic and a source of comfort and inspiration to people all over the world.