The 59th Street Bridge Song
Simon & Garfunkel Lyrics


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Slow down, you move too fast
You got to make the morning last
Just kicking down the cobblestones
Looking for fun and feeling groovy
Ba da-da da-da da-da, feeling groovy

Hello lamppost, what'cha knowing
I've come to watch your flowers growin'
Ain't you got no rhymes for me?
Doo-ait-n-doo-doo, feeling groovy
Ba da-da da-da da-da, feeling groovy

I got no deeds to do, no promises to keep
I'm dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep




Let the morning time drop all its petals on me
Life, I love you, all is groovy

Overall Meaning

"The 59th Street Bridge Song" is an ode to the simple pleasures of life, with a message to slow down and enjoy the moment. The lyrics tell the story of someone strolling through the busy streets of New York City, taking the time to appreciate the little things in life like flowers growing on a lamppost. The first verse advises slowing down because life moves too fast, and encourages the listener to make the most of their mornings. The second verse describes the singer's encounter with a lamppost and their playful conversation, highlighting the joy that can be found in even the most unexpected places. The final verse expresses a desire to simply be in the moment, without any pressures or responsibilities, and enjoy the beauty of life.


Overall, "The 59th Street Bridge Song" is a lighthearted and upbeat tune that encourages listeners to take a break from their busy lives and appreciate the little things. With its cheerful melody and whimsical lyrics, the song has become an anthem for those seeking a simpler, more carefree way of life.


Line by Line Meaning

Slow down, you move too fast
Take your time and enjoy the present moment. Don't rush through life.


You got to make the morning last
Make the most of each day by savoring it and stretching out the time you have.


Just kicking down the cobblestones
Strolling through the city streets aimlessly, enjoying the moment and being carefree.


Looking for fun and feeling groovy
Enjoying life and feeling happy and content with the simple pleasures.


Ba da-da da-da da-da, feeling groovy
Expressing the joy of being carefree and content with life.


Hello lamppost, what'cha knowing
Addressing the world around you and seeking the wisdom of everyday objects like a lamppost.


I've come to watch your flowers growin'
Taking time to appreciate the beauty of nature and the simple things in life.


Ain't you got no rhymes for me?
Asking for inspiration and creativity from the world around you.


Doo-ait-n-doo-doo, feeling groovy
Expressing the joy and carefree feeling of enjoying life.


I got no deeds to do, no promises to keep
Being in a state of contentment and having no pressing obligations or duties.


I'm dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep
Feeling calm and relaxed, ready for a peaceful rest.


Let the morning time drop all its petals on me
Being open to the beauty and possibilities of each new day, and letting it wash over you.


Life, I love you, all is groovy
Feeling grateful for life and everything it has to offer, and being content and happy with it all.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Paul Simon

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comments from YouTube:

@EneaSeverino

Slow down, you move too fast
You got to make the morning last
Just kicking down the cobblestones
Looking for fun and feeling groovy
Ba da-da da-da da-da, feeling groovy
Hello lamppost, what'cha knowing
I've come to watch your flowers growin'
Ain't you got no rhymes for me?
Doo-ait-n-doo-doo, feeling groovy
Ba da-da da-da da-da, feeling groovy
I got no deeds to do, no promises to keep
I'm dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep
Let the morningtime drop all its petals on me
Life, I love you, all is groovy



@annemegane9269

You were raised just right!

I saw Paul Simon in concert about 15 years ago and (at 24). It was in Manhattan but I forget the exact venue. Wasn't Hammerstein.

I was the youngest person in the audience. I was asked by a good dozen folks how I knew so many songs. I proudly replied, simply, "Mom and Dad." Many approving nods followed, with a few "Where are they?"

"Home and jealous as Hell!"

There were no follow-up questions.



@comicbooks8739

I jog by forest lawn cemetary almost every morning and stop and watch when graves are dug and I always sing these lines to myself:
I've got no deeds to do
No promises to keep
I'm dappled and drowsy
And ready to sleep
Let the morning time drop all its petals on me
Life I love you
All is groovy

I told my wife I want these words on my headstone



All comments from YouTube:

@Purehthought333

My first day of school my first class was music. The teacher taught us all to sing this song and what the word groovy meant. I have a tear in my eye as I write. Thanks Mrs. Lipard!

@rodo6795

Sounds like a very beautiful first day of school. ❤

@jeremyalford9166

Swear to Gawd😂😂😂

@jeremyalford9166

West Lumberton Elementary 😂

@jeremyalford9166

4grade😂 damn

@Bolgabolgabolga

That's awesome! Same types of memories for me! We sang carpenters song "on top of the world" .. we all would get a set of sticks or a Block of wood with a stick.. a triangle.. Our teacher would play the piano and we'd all sing... I understand the tears.

14 More Replies...

@jayraskin

Rode on a bus over the 59th Street Bridge while visiting my sisters who still live in New York. My daughter (29) and two grand-daughters (5 and 9 years old) was with me. I played this song for them. I tried to make them understand how I loved this song and what it meant to me and so many people of my generation.

@jesfreeman4656

My dad sang this to me growing up. I still hear his voice when I listen to it. He passed in 2017 at 58 years old. Miss him every day

@INBOUNDFBI

my dads turning 62 this year so glad i have him in my life. Blessings to you and yours

@llrblaylock9451

I ❤ this song and the brilliant song writing team of Simon and Garfunkel.

This tune is a painted memory of my childhood.
Just feeling groovy.🎉

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