About the Song
The Boxer is a song written by Paul Simon and recorded by the American folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. It was released in 1970 as the second single from their fifth and final studio album, Bridge over Troubled Water. The song is a six-minute ballad that tells the story of a boxer who, despite being beaten and bloodied, continues to fight.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a metaphor for the struggles of life. The boxer can be seen as a symbol of anyone who has ever faced adversity and come out the other side. The song’s message is one of hope and resilience, and it has inspired generations of listeners.
“(The Boxer)” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It has also been covered by many artists, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and The Grateful Dead. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.
Simon & Garfunkel’s “(The Boxer)” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its message of hope and resilience is as relevant today as it was when it was first released. The song is a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift.
Some interesting facts about the song:
The song was inspired by a poem that Paul Simon wrote when he was a teenager.
The song’s lyrics are full of biblical allusions.
The song was originally recorded with a different tempo, but it was slowed down at the suggestion of producer Roy Halee.
The song was used in the 1970 film The Graduate.
“(The Boxer)” is one of the most covered songs of all time.
Here are some additional details about the song’s lyrics:
The song’s first verse introduces the boxer as a “poor boy” who has “squandered [his] resistance” for “a pocket full of mumbles.” This suggests that the boxer is not a wealthy or powerful man, but rather someone who has been through a lot of hardship.
The second verse describes the boxer’s journey as he travels from his home and family to “the quiet of the railway station.” This suggests that the boxer is on a journey of self-discovery, searching for a place where he can belong.
The third verse finds the boxer in “the poorer quarters” of town, “looking for the places only they would know.” This suggests that the boxer is looking for a place where he can find acceptance and understanding.
The song’s chorus is a simple but powerful statement of hope. The boxer sings, “I am just a boxer, I’m a fighter in the ring,” but he also declares, “I am a survivor.” This suggests that the boxer is not defined by his circumstances, but rather by his strength and determination.
The song’s bridge is a moment of reflection for the boxer. He sings, “I’ve been beaten, I’ve been bloodied, but I’m still here.” This suggests that the boxer has faced adversity, but he has not given up.
The song’s outro is a triumphant declaration of hope. The boxer sings, “I’m a fighter, I’m a survivor,” and he repeats the song’s title, “(The Boxer).” This suggests that the boxer is determined to keep fighting, no matter what challenges he faces.
“(The Boxer)” is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the human spirit. It is a song about hope, resilience, and the power of the human will.