About The Song
“The Boxer,” a poignant and introspective masterpiece by Simon & Garfunkel, was released in 1970 as part of their album “Bridge over Troubled Water.” The song delves into themes of resilience, vulnerability, and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity. Paul Simon’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man struggling with life’s challenges, finding solace and strength in solitude and introspection. The powerful imagery of a boxer training, enduring physical and emotional pain, serves as a metaphor for the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with Simon & Garfunkel’s harmonious vocals, creates a timeless and emotionally resonant listening experience. “The Boxer” has become a beloved classic, resonating with listeners across generations and continuing to inspire and uplift.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and metaphors, which contribute to its emotional depth and lasting appeal. For example, the line “Slipped the surly bonds of earth” is a reference to a poem by John Gillespie Magee Jr., which adds another layer of meaning to the song. The song’s message of hope and perseverance has resonated with listeners for decades, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for many.
In addition to its lyrical and musical merits, “The Boxer” is also notable for its production values. The song features a lush orchestral arrangement, which adds to its emotional impact. The album “Bridge over Troubled Water” was produced by Roy Halee, who is considered one of the greatest record producers of all time. Halee’s work on “The Boxer” helped to make it one of the most successful songs of the 1970s.
“The Boxer” has been covered by many artists over the years, including Billy Joel, Garth Brooks, and Celine Dion. The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
“The Boxer” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its message of hope, perseverance, and the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity is as relevant today as it was when the song was first released.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I am just a poor boy
Though my story’s seldom told
I have squandered my resistance
For a pocketful of mumbles
Such are promises
All lies and jest
Still, a man hears what he wants to hear
And disregards the rest
When I left my home and my family
I was no more than a boy
In the company of strangers
In the quiet of a railway station
Running scared
Laying low, seeking out the poorer quarters
Where the ragged people go
Looking for the places only they would know
Lie-la-lie…
Asking only workman’s wages
I come looking for a job
But I get no offers
Just a come-on from the whores on Seventh Avenue
I do declare there were times when I was so lonesome
I took some comfort there
Lie-la-lie…
Then I’m laying out my winter clothes
And wishing I was gone
Going home
Where the New York City winters aren’t bleeding me
Leading me
Going home
In the clearing stands a boxer
And a fighter by his trade
And he carries the reminders
Of every glove that laid him down
OR cut him ’til he cried out
In his anger and his shame
“I am leaving, I am leaving”
But the fighter still remains
Lie-la-lie…