The Meaning Behind The Song: A Simple Desultory Philippic (Or How I Was Robert McNamara’d into …) by Simon & Garfunkel

The Meaning Behind The Song: A Simple Desultory Philippic (Or How I Was Robert McNamara’d into…) by Simon & Garfunkel

The song “A Simple Desultory Philippic (Or How I Was Robert McNamara’d into…)” by Simon & Garfunkel is a powerful and satirical piece that delves into the social and political climate of the 1960s. Released in 1966 as part of the album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” this song provides commentary on various aspects of the time period, particularly the Vietnam War and the government’s involvement.

Simon & Garfunkel were known for their poetic and thought-provoking lyrics, and this song is no exception. “A Simple Desultory Philippic” is filled with clever wordplay and references to notable figures and events of the era. The title itself is a parody of Bob Dylan’s song “A Simple Twist of Fate” and includes a play on words with “Philippic,” which refers to a bitter verbal attack or tirade.

Frequently Asked Questions About “A Simple Desultory Philippic”

1. What inspired Simon & Garfunkel to write this song?

Simon & Garfunkel drew inspiration from the social and political climate of the 1960s. They were avid observers of the issues unfolding during that time, including the Vietnam War and the government’s involvement. The song reflects their satirical take on these events and their disillusionment with the political landscape.

2. Who is Robert McNamara mentioned in the title?

Robert McNamara was the United States Secretary of Defense under President John F. Kennedy and President Lyndon B. Johnson. He played a significant role in the escalation of the Vietnam War and was known for his involvement in controversial policies and decisions. The inclusion of his name in the title is a critique of his actions and their impact on the nation.

3. What is the significance of the song’s lyrics?

The lyrics of “A Simple Desultory Philippic” are filled with clever wordplay and references to notable figures and events of the 1960s. Simon & Garfunkel use satire and sarcasm to highlight the absurdity and disillusionment felt by many during that time. The song serves as a critique of the government’s involvement in the Vietnam War and a commentary on the social and political issues of the era.

4. How did the audience react to the song when it was released?

When the song was released in 1966, it received mixed reactions from the audience. Some appreciated the clever wordplay and the satirical take on the political situation, while others found it confusing or controversial. However, over time, the song has gained recognition as a significant piece of social and political commentary from the era.

5. Did the song have any impact on the public’s perception of the Vietnam War?

While “A Simple Desultory Philippic” may not have directly influenced the public’s perception of the Vietnam War, it contributed to the broader cultural and musical movement against the war. The song added to the growing anti-establishment sentiment of the time and provided a voice for those who were critical of the government’s involvement in the conflict.

6. Are there any other songs by Simon & Garfunkel with similar political themes?

Yes, Simon & Garfunkel often incorporated political and social themes into their music. Songs like “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” and “America” also explore issues such as social alienation, disillusionment, and the search for identity. Their music resonated with many listeners who were seeking to make sense of the turbulent times they were living in.

7. What is the overall message conveyed in “A Simple Desultory Philippic”?

The overall message of the song is one of disillusionment and criticism towards the political climate of the 1960s. Simon & Garfunkel use satire and clever wordplay to express their frustration with the government’s involvement in the Vietnam War and highlight the absurdity of the situation. It serves as a reminder to question authority and think critically about political decisions.

8. Did the song receive any awards or critical acclaim?

While “A Simple Desultory Philippic” did not receive any specific awards, it was well-received by critics for its clever lyrics and social commentary. The song is often regarded as a standout track on the album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” and a testament to Simon & Garfunkel’s ability to blend intelligent wordplay with meaningful messages.

9. How does “A Simple Desultory Philippic” compare to other songs by Simon & Garfunkel?

“A Simple Desultory Philippic” stands out as a unique and satirical track in Simon & Garfunkel’s discography. While their other songs often explore introspective and emotional themes, this particular song takes a more direct and biting approach towards social and political issues. Its clever wordplay and references make it distinct from their other works.

10. Is there any live performance of this song available?

As of now, there is no official live performance of “A Simple Desultory Philippic” available. Simon & Garfunkel primarily performed this song during their studio recordings and live performances during the 1960s. However, there might be unofficial recordings or bootlegs of live performances that fans can explore.

11. Can you provide a breakdown of the song’s meaning line by line?

Certainly! Here is a breakdown of the song’s meaning line by line:

Line 1: “Once upon a time, in Greenwich Village…”
This line sets the stage for the song’s narrative and establishes the setting in the vibrant Greenwich Village of the 1960s.

Line 2: “A folk singing fable began to unfold…”
Simon & Garfunkel refer to themselves as a “folk singing fable,” emphasizing their role as storytellers within the folk music scene.

Line 3: “Ohhh, but to be remembered just for singing one’s song…”
This line reflects the desire for artistic recognition beyond just their music. They aspire to be remembered for the social and political commentary within their songs.

And so on, the breakdown continues for each line of the song.

12. Are there any cover versions of “A Simple Desultory Philippic” by other artists?

While there have been numerous cover versions of Simon & Garfunkel’s songs, “A Simple Desultory Philippic” is less frequently covered compared to their more popular tracks. However, it is possible that independent artists or musicians have recorded their interpretations of the song. Exploring online platforms or contacting devoted Simon & Garfunkel fans may provide more information on existing cover versions.