Cecilia

Paul Simon is too much of a sophisticated artist to write a song simply about a hooker or some slut. Read the lyrics again keeping in mind that St. Cecilia is the patron saint of music. Takes on a whole new meaning, doesn't it? Much more fitting of Paul's spectacular artistry.

my mother used to sing this to me, but instead of "making love" she would sing "making lunch" that made the face washing thing more understandable...i always imagined pb&j

I have always taken this song to be about his relationship with his music, with the dating type relationship as a well placed metaphor. (taking "Cecilia" as a religious refference to St Cecilia, the patron saint of music; a catholic figure- taking note also that it is quite common to find religious refferences in Simon and Garfunkel's music)

The song does reference St. Cecilia and describes Simon's frustration with his muse leaving him and his jubilation upon her return.

Even though it makes the song seem more shallow and typical, I kind of like the 'love story' interpretation better. It makes the song much sweeter that way.

This song obviously states that this is one ROCKY relationship! I think it means that Cecilia doesnt know what to do. One minute, she is with him and then another minute she isnt. Its breaking his heart because he loves her and badly wants her. In the end all is well and she stays with him..but how long will that hold up for?

I absoloutley adore this song and even sometimes connect it with my love. The main message I get out of it is that he loves this girl and thinks she loves him back. However the girls afraid of getting too close and has to be distant which makes Paul think she doesn't love him. The intensity of it all is driving him crazy.. ''Jubilation, she loves me again. I fall on the floor, and I'm laughing.''

i never knew about st. cecilia, but it makes sense. i'm a little disappointed, because i always thought it was just a bittersweet song about someone who'd cheated and come back. but i do like that it has multiple levels and works on both.

I interpret this as a meesage as to how relationships can change so quickly- just while you are washing your face.

Delightfully playful song about love lost and the joy of reunification.