Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “The Boy In the Bubble – Live at Webster Hall, New York City – June 2011” by Paul Simon
This classic song from Paul Simon’s brilliant album “Graceland” paints a vivid, heart-rending portrait of a young man who is so sheltered and alone that he has a false sense of safety, protected in a “bubble” from the realities of the outside world. The song takes us on a journey as he moves from his bubble into the real world and learns lessons about love, loss and regret.
The narrator’s gentle and melodic voice reflects his inner conflict as he struggles to come to terms with his feelings and situations that he’s struggling with. His thoughtful lyrics convey a sense of melancholy, confusion and fear as he realizes that although it’s scary outside of his bubble, it’s full of wonderful things too.
The chorus captures the emotion of the song perfectly – “These are the days of miracles and wonders, and don’t cry baby, don’t cry” – as if to say everything will be okay, life does go on, and we must learn to take risks and forge ahead.
This song is a beautiful reminder that growth comes with risk and although it is scary, obstacles can be overcome. Ultimately, we must all make our own way and follow our hearts despite our fears.