Simon & Garfunkel are undeniably one of the most influential folk-rock duos in the history of music. Their harmonious blend, poetic lyrics, and poignant melodies have etched a permanent mark in the landscape of American music. One of their lesser-discussed but equally fascinating songs is “Fakin’ It,” a track from their 1968 album “Bookends”.
This song, like many of their others, offers a window into the cultural and personal narratives of the time. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the background, historical context, lyrics, meaning, and legacy of “Fakin’ It,” shedding light on its subtle complexities and the societal impact it has had.
Background and Historical Context
“Bookends” was an album that captured the essence of the tumultuous 1960s. It was a time of social upheaval, political unrest, and a search for personal identity amidst the chaos. Simon & Garfunkel, comprising of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, were at the peak of their musical journey during this period, and “Fakin’ It” stands as a testament to their introspective and innovative approach to songwriting.
Released in July 1967, “Fakin’ It” was part of the duo’s move towards more experimental and varied production techniques. The song was recorded in multiple sessions and featured an unusual structure that defied the standard verse-chorus format of the time. It is noteworthy that the song was released during the “Summer of Love,” when the counterculture movement was gaining momentum, and authenticity and self-expression were highly valued ideals.
Lyrics and Meaning
“Fakin’ It” is a song that embodies the struggles of self-identity and the pressures of societal expectations. The title itself suggests a theme of pretense or a lack of authenticity in one’s actions.
Verse Analysis
The opening lines of the song set the stage for a narrative of self-examination:
“I’m such a dubious soul,
And a walk in the garden
Wears me down.”
Here, Paul Simon introduces us to a character who is uncertain, perhaps about his place in the world or his worth. The garden, often a symbol of natural beauty and tranquility, instead becomes a place of fatigue, suggesting a disconnect between the individual and the world around him.
“Tangled in the fallen vines,
Pickin’ up the punch lines,
I’ve just been fakin’ it,
Not really makin’ it.”
The imagery of being tangled in vines could represent the entanglements of life—obligations, expectations, and the roles one plays that feel misaligned with their true self. The punch lines might refer to the speaker going through the motions, repeating what is expected or what will get him through social interactions without genuine engagement.
Chorus Interpretation
The chorus brings a more direct confession:
“Is there any danger?
No, no, not really.
Just lean on me.
Takin’ time to treat
Your friendly neighbors honestly.”
This could be an invitation to lean on each other, to support one another in times of uncertainty and pretense. The mention of “friendly neighbors” and treating them “honestly” suggests a yearning for genuine connection and community in a world where superficiality often reigns.
Bridge and Symbolism
The bridge of the song introduces a broader societal context:
“This feeling of fakin’ it—
I still haven’t shaken it.
Prior to this lifetime,
I surely was a tailor.”
Here, “fakin’ it” is not just a personal sentiment, but a pervasive condition that the speaker has not been able to escape. The mention of a past life as a tailor adds a layer of complexity. Tailors adjust and alter appearances, which could be a metaphor for the alterations one makes to one’s outward persona to fit into societal molds.
Societal Impact and Legacy
“Fakin’ It” is a reflection of the collective consciousness of the 1960s—a time when people were challenging the status quo and seeking authenticity. The song resonates with listeners who feel the pressures of societal expectations and the desire to discover and express their true selves.
The legacy of “Fakin’ It” lies in its ability to articulate a common human experience. It may not have the commercial prominence of “The Sound of Silence” or “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” but its impact is no less significant. The song has been covered and sampled by various artists over the years, indicating its enduring relevance.
Simon & Garfunkel’s “Fakin’ It” is a masterful blend of poetic lyrics and musical innovation. It represents the struggles of the human condition and the pursuit of authenticity in a world that often rewards conformity. Its legacy is a reminder of the importance of honesty in our relationships with others and with ourselves.