Cat's in the Cradle Lyrics

Lyric discussion by Bullzeye 

Cover art for Cat's in the Cradle lyrics by Harry Chapin

I think a lot of people are totally missing the point of this song.

It's about a father who was always too busy to spend time with his son, even though his son always promises to grow up just like him.

Till one day many years later he sees his son acting the same way he used to, not making time for his family at all, and realizes too late that he really did grow up just like his father...

It's a cautionary tale about spending time with your kids. It's sad. It's not supposed to be something you're proud of, jeez...

Right on the money with the meaning, I heard this song in high school and swore I'd never be like that. I changed more diapers than my wife did. I've been active in cub scouts,girl scouts ,boy scouts. I tried to make all my kids' football and basketball games and any activity they had. Most of all, I never stop hugging and kissing them and I listen to what they say.(You never get a chance to do it over).

Yep. Pretty straight forward but still quite poignant and sad. Always gets me a bit teary. And think about it with my daughter.

My Interpretation

@Bullzeye thanks, never would have got that!