Meaning of 'America'

by Simon And Garfunkel

Interpretation

'America' by Simon and Garfunkel is a song that tells the story of the search for the American Dream and the longing for freedom and adventure. The song is about two lovers who merge their destinies and travel to America together to seek their happiness.

The lyrics begin with the lines 'Let us be lovers, We’ll marry our fortunes together. I’ve got some real estate Here in my bag.' These lines show that the two protagonists are determined to merge their lives and walk together. They have the desire to start something new in America and make their dreams come true.

The song also describes their journey to America, how they board a Greyhound bus and travel through different states. It becomes clear that the search for America is not just a physical journey, but also an inner journey of self-discovery and understanding of the country and its people.

During their journey, the two protagonists have funny encounters and play games with the faces of the other passengers. There is also a scene where the singer points out to Kathy that a man in a suit could be a spy. This shows that the song also expresses a certain paranoia and caution regarding American society and politics.

The lyrics also describe the loneliness and emptiness of the singer while Kathy sleeps. He feels lost and longs for something without knowing exactly what it is. The line 'I’m empty and aching and I don’t know why' expresses these emotions.

Overall, 'America' is a song about the search for one's place in the world, the desire for freedom, and the question of the meaning of life. It is a song that expresses the longing for adventure and the hope for a better life.