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# The Enigmatic Charm of The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy) by Simon & Garfunkel
Simon & Garfunkel, the iconic folk-rock duo, have been known for their poetic lyrics, harmonious melodies, and their ability to capture the zeitgeist of the 1960s. Among their rich catalog of music, *The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)* stands out as a whimsical and carefree anthem that resonates with a sense of joy and leisure. Let’s dive into the background, historical context, lyrics, meaning, and the legacy of this timeless classic.
Background
Released in 1966 on the album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” *The 59th Street Bridge Song* was written by Paul Simon, one half of the duo. The song is often referred to by its colloquial title, *Feelin’ Groovy*. It features a light, airy melody that contrasts with some of the duo’s more somber and introspective work. This song is an audible representation of a simpler, more joyful moment.
Historical Context
The 1960s were a tumultuous time, characterized by significant social and political upheaval. The United States, in the midst of the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, was a hotbed of protest and activism. Amidst this backdrop, *Feelin’ Groovy* emerged as a breath of fresh air. It didn’t tackle the heavy issues of the day head-on, but instead offered a momentary escape from the chaos, encouraging listeners to embrace life’s simpler pleasures.
Lyrics and Meaning
Simon & Garfunkel were masters of lyricism, and though *Feelin’ Groovy* may seem on the surface to be a light-hearted ditty, its lyrics are rich with meaning and intent. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this song so enduring.
Slow Down, You Move Too Fast
The opening line, “Slow down, you move too fast”, sets the tone for the entire song. It’s an invitation to the listener to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of modern life. In the 1960s, society was rapidly changing with the acceleration of technology, urbanization, and cultural shifts. This line reflects a universal desire to pause and find peace in the midst of chaos.
Making the Morning Last
“You got to make the morning last,” follows the plea to slow down with a suggestion on how to do so: by savoring the moment. The morning is often associated with a fresh start, a new opportunity to appreciate the world around us. The sentiment expressed here is timeless and universally relatable—reminding us to cherish each new beginning.
Hello Lampost, What’cha Knowin’?
This quirky greeting to an inanimate object, “Hello lampost, what’cha knowin’?”, exemplifies the song’s whimsical nature. It personifies the lampost, suggesting a kinship with the fixtures of our everyday environment. The line captures a sense of child-like wonder and curiosity that is often lost in adulthood.
I’ve Come to Watch Your Flowers Growin’
Continuing with the theme of appreciating the world around us, Simon writes, “I’ve come to watch your flowers growin’.” This lyric points to a deliberate action of observation and appreciation. Watching flowers grow is a slow, rewarding process that mirrors the song’s message of taking time to witness the beauty in life’s simple pleasures.
Ain’tcha Got No Rhymes for Me?
The line, “Ain’tcha got no rhymes for me?”, can be interpreted as a playful nudge towards the lampost or, figuratively, towards the world. It’s as if the singer is asking the universe to provide some poetry to make sense of life. It’s a request for beauty, for art, for something that makes the mundanity of everyday life a bit more bearable and joyful.
Doot-in’ Doo-Doo, Feelin’ Groovy
The nonsensical phrase, “Doot-in’ doo-doo, feelin’ groovy,” serves as both a refrain and a manifestation of the song’s essence. These words, devoid of concrete meaning, epitomize the light-hearted spirit of the song. The word “groovy” itself, a term deeply entrenched in 60s slang, conveys a sense of being cool, relaxed, and at ease with the world.
Interpretation of the Song
The song’s title references the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, also known as the 59th Street Bridge, which connects Manhattan to Queens in New York City. The bridge serves as a physical metaphor for transition and movement—yet the song itself is about the joy of inactivity, of being still and observant.
Throughout its brief duration, *Feelin’ Groovy* never strays from its central thesis: the importance of disconnecting from our worries and obligations to appreciate the world’s natural rhythm. It’s a sort of musical mindfulness, decades before the concept would enter the mainstream.
The song’s melody, played in a bouncy, syncopated rhythm on acoustic guitar, complements the lyrics beautifully. It’s as if the guitar itself is telling you to skip along, to find your own happy cadence as you navigate the sidewalks and rhythms of life.
Legacy and Societal Impact
*The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)* remains a beloved piece of Simon & Garfunkel’s discography. Its legacy is one of positivity and lightness, a counterbalance to the weightier social anthems of its era. It’s been covered by various artists, featured in movies, and continues to be a song that can instantly raise the spirits of its listeners.
In a society that often glorifies busyness and productivity, *Feelin’ Groovy* is a musical reminder of the joy that can be found in stillness and simplicity. It encourages a philosophy of living that values being present and appreciative of the small wonders of life. As such, the song’s message is as relevant today as it was in the 1960s, perhaps even more so in our fast-paced digital age.
In conclusion, *The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)* by Simon & Garfunkel is not just a light-hearted tune from a bygone era. It’s a timeless ode to joy, an anthem for slowing down, and a gentle reminder that sometimes, feeling groovy is all about watching the flowers grow and finding your own rhymes in the poetry of everyday life.