Bridge Over Troubled Water

Simon and Garfunkel.

Bridge Over Troubled Water.”                                                                                        Written by Paul Simon. Performed by Art Garfunkel.

One of the great things about being subscribed to Pandora and owning an Alexa device is that I can request the music of any era I choose. I rediscovered the music of Simon and Garfunkel. One of my favorite songs that Paul Simon composed and Art Garfunkel sang was Bridge Over Troubled Water.

Lyrics:

"When you’re weary, feeling small

When tears are in your eyes, I’ll dry them all (all)

I’m on your side, oh, when times get rough

And friends just can’t be found

Like a Bridge Over Troubled Water

I will lay me down

Like a bridge over troubled water

I will lay me down

When you’re down and out

When you’re on the street

When evening falls so hard

I will comfort you (ooo)

I’ll take your part, oh, when darkness comes

And pain is all around

Like a bridge over troubled water

I will lay me down

Like a bridge over troubled water

I will lay me down

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

Like a bridge over troubled water

I will ease your mind

Like a bridge over troubled water

I will ease your mind."

It is a song that transcends mere musical composition, developing into a timeless anthem of comfort, support, and unwavering friendship. Written by Paul Simon and released in 1970, this song captures the essence of human connection and the profound impact of being there for one another during distress and uncertainty. Its lyrical depth and dynamic melody have rendered it an enduring piece of art that resonates with generations.

The essence of human connection in the song is captured by the powerful words in the first stanza: 

"When you’re weary, feeling small

When tears are in your eyes, I’ll dry them all

I’m on your side, oh, when times get rough

And friends just can’t be found

Like a Bridge Over Troubled Water

I will lay me down." 

I am sure that you, the reader, have experienced those times when life gets rough and you feel very alone. I know there have been moments like that in my life.

My work as a psychotherapist has involved being that bridge over troubled waters. My role was not to find solutions to the problems brought by the client but to be a collaborator in problem-solving.

The song's opening line, "When you're weary, feeling small," immediately establishes a tone of empathy and understanding. It addresses the listener, acknowledging the universal experience of feeling overwhelmed and diminished by life's burdens. The imagery of a "Bridge Over Troubled Water" is a powerful metaphor for providing support and safety. Just as a bridge offers a stable path over a tumultuous river, the song promises a steadfast presence and help during turbulent times.

Paul Simon's lyrics are an ode to the strength found in human connection. The promise to "lay me down" like a bridge expresses selflessness, offering solace and shelter to those in need. This message is amplified by Art Garfunkel's soaring vocals, which convey both the vulnerability of needing help and the powerful reassurance of giving it.

The song's musical arrangement further enhances its emotional impact. The piano-driven melody starts softly, mirroring the gentle offer of support, and gradually builds to a crescendo, symbolizing the rising strength and hope that can emerge from despair. Gospel-inspired backing vocals in the last verses elevate the song to a spiritual dimension, suggesting that helping others can be a deeply soulful experience.

"Bridge Over Troubled Water" also reflects the social and political turmoil of the late 1960s and early 1970s, marked by war, civil rights struggles, and widespread societal change. In this context, the song served as a balm, offering hope and unity in a period of division and unrest. I remember those days so clearly. Perhaps everyone believes the times were best when they were young, but I clearly remember that there was great hope for America and the world through all the turmoil. It underscored that people could overcome adversity through empathy, understanding, and mutual support.

Over the years, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" has been covered by many artists across various genres, a testament to its universal appeal and timeless message. It has comforted countless listeners, serving as a musical beacon of hope during personal hardships and global crises.

The song was enormously successful. Sadly, that was the last time they worked together. They could not build a bridge over the troubled water between them.