How Can You Live In The Northeast
Paul Simon Lyrics

In "How Can You Live in the Northeast" by Paul Simon, the lyrics capture a sense of curiosity and contemplation about the diversity of human existence, particularly in different geographical and cultural contexts. The song begins with a scene of witnessing fireworks on the Fourth of July, a symbol of celebration and national identity. However, Simon quickly transitions into a series of rhetorical questions that challenge the norms and beliefs of different regions and religions.

The refrain, "How can you live in the Northeast? How can you live in the South?" implies that the artist is questioning how people can exist in different parts of the country, each with its own distinct lifestyle and challenges. The following line about building on the banks of a river while facing the threat of flood water embodies the broader idea of how people navigate life's uncertainties and dangers in different environments.

Simon continues to challenge traditional beliefs and practices by asking, "How can you be a Christian? How can you be a Jew? How can you be a Muslim, a Buddhist, a Hindu... how can you?" These questions suggest that the artist is not seeking definitive answers but rather encouraging listeners to reflect on the idea that religion is a personal choice shaped by various factors.

The next verse delves into the existential nature of existence and the search for meaning. Simon compares the weak winter sun to the fragility and vulnerability of human life, emphasizing that names, religion, and personal beliefs often become defining factors after birth. The line about everyone having an inner voice and a day of the week dedicated to reflection and celebration implies that all individuals have the capacity for introspection and spirituality regardless of their religious or cultural background.

The questions posed in the refrain are expanded upon with additional lines such as "How can you tattoo your body? Why do you cover your head? How can you eat from a rice bowl – the holy man only breaks bread?" Here, Simon challenges societal norms and expectations by questioning why certain practices are considered acceptable or unacceptable based on cultural or religious boundaries.

The song concludes with the poignant image of watching fireworks until they resemble fireflies and following the path of stars across the endless skies. This imagery suggests a sense of wonder and freedom, as well as the realization that despite the complexities and questions raised throughout the song, life and its experiences are still worth exploring and celebrating.

In the final lines, Simon reflects on his own personal journey as a descendant of immigrants. He acknowledges that he has been fortunate, having had his desires fulfilled and only being a few generations removed from his family's arrival in America. The metaphor of wearing his father's old coat adds a layer of nostalgia and a connection to his heritage, further highlighting the importance of one's roots and the passing down of traditions.

Overall, "How Can You Live in the Northeast" serves as a thought-provoking exploration of identity, spirituality, and the ways in which individuals navigate their existence within diverse cultural, geographical, and religious contexts. It encourages listeners to question societal norms, challenge preconceived notions, and embrace the diversity that exists both within and beyond their own experiences.