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• 1 2025-07-06T19:40:55-04:00 “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel, contributed by Ryan Xia (2025) 1 plain 2025-07-06T19:40:55-04:00

  When you’re weary, feeling small,
  When tears are in your eyes
  I will dry them all
  I’m on your side
  When times get rough
  And friends just can’t be found
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will lay me down
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will lay me down
  
  When you’re down and out
  When you’re on the street
  When evening falls so hard
  I will comfort you
  I’ll take your part
  When darkness comes
  And pain is all around
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will lay me down
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will lay me down
  
  Sail on, silver girl
  Sail on by
  Your time has come to shine
  All your dreams are on their way
  See how they shine
  If you need a friend
  I’m sailing right behind
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will ease your mind
  Like a bridge over troubled water
  I will ease your mind

  
  The speaker of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is tender, selfless, and an unwavering support for someone in grief. There are many ways to interpret the speaker’s identity that can be comforting for someone experiencing grief. I have friends who interpret the song as a reassurance from a benevolent higher power. Paul Simon drew inspiration for the title and lyrics from the African American spiritual “Mary Don’t You Weep,” and the melody from J. S. Bach’s setting of the hymn “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” both religious works. The song could also be a message from a loved one who has recently parted. They’re still present, watching over and protecting you. For me, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” conjures images of my family, of hugs and home-cooked meals, and the sacrifices we are willing to make for each other. It reminds me that I am not alone in sadness, that there’s a shoulder to cry on, and to reach out for help. I think the beauty and power of this song lies in both this openness to interpretation of its lyrics, and an emotional rawness of the music. Hearing the swell of the piano and the ache in Garfunkel’s voice during the chorus often brings me to tears.