About the song
Simon & Garfunkel’s “Mrs. Robinson,” a sonic tapestry woven with the threads of youthful rebellion, societal expectations, and the allure of forbidden love, stands as a testament to the duo’s enduring legacy. Released in 1968 as part of their fourth studio album, *Bookends*, the song’s evocative lyrics and haunting melody have captivated audiences for decades.
Originally conceived as a tribute to Eleanor Roosevelt, the song’s title was later changed to “Mrs. Robinson” to align with the character’s significance in the film *The Graduate*. The song’s lyrical narrative unfolds as a coming-of-age tale, exploring themes of disillusionment, societal pressure, and the allure of forbidden romance. The protagonist, a young man on the cusp of adulthood, finds himself drawn to the alluring Mrs. Robinson, a woman who represents both a symbol of forbidden desire and a reflection of his own internal turmoil.
Beyond its thematic depth, “Mrs. Robinson” is a musical masterpiece characterized by its intricate harmonies, evocative melody, and Paul Simon’s poetic lyrics. The song’s iconic opening line, “Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?” serves as a poignant reference to the fading American dream and the disillusionment of a generation. The song’s arrangement is both minimalist and powerful, featuring Simon’s acoustic guitar, Garfunkel’s distinctive vocals, and a subtle orchestral accompaniment.
The song’s cultural impact is undeniable. It has been covered by countless artists, from Frank Sinatra to the Lemonheads, and remains a staple of popular music. “Mrs. Robinson” was also the first rock song to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
In conclusion, “Mrs. Robinson” is more than just a popular song; it is a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its exploration of themes of youth, rebellion, and societal expectations, coupled with its musical brilliance, has ensured its enduring legacy. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the universal human experience of longing, desire, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
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Lyrics
And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
We’d like to know a little bit about you for our files
We’d like to help you learn to help yourself
Look around you, all you see are sympathetic eyes
Stroll around the grounds until you feel at home
And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
Hide it in a hiding place where no one ever goes
Put it in your pantry with your cupcakes
It’s a little secret, just the Robinson’s affair
Most of all, you’ve got to hide it from the kids
Coo, coo, ca-choo, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know
Whoa, whoa, whoa
God bless you, please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
Sitting on a sofa on a Sunday afternoon
Going to the candidates debate
Laugh about it, shout about it
When you’ve got to choose
Every way you look at this, you lose
Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?
Our nation turns its lonely eyes to you
Woo, woo, woo
What’s that you say, Mrs. Robinson?
Joltin’ Joe has left and gone away
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey