Introduction
“Late In The Evening” is a song by American musician Paul Simon. It was released in 1980 as the lead single from his album “One-Trick Pony.” The song features a blend of African rhythms, rock and roll, and R&B. The lyrics of the song revolve around a man who goes out to have fun late at night after a hard day’s work. In this article, we will explore the lyrics of “Late In The Evening” by Paul Simon.
Verse 1
The first verse of the song goes like this:
“The first thing I remember, I was lying in my bed / I couldn’t’ve been no more than one or two / And I remember there’s a radio, coming from the room next door / My mother laughed the way some ladies do.”
In these lines, the narrator recalls a memory from his childhood. He remembers lying in bed and hearing a radio playing in the next room. His mother’s laughter is also mentioned.
Chorus
The chorus of the song goes:
“Late in the evening, out in the summertime / Did you feel it? / I don’t mind to spend some time / Out in the street this evening.”
These lines suggest that the narrator enjoys spending time outside in the evening during the summer. He doesn’t mind being out in the street and having a good time.
Verse 2
The second verse goes like this:
“Well, I’ve been trying to get over / To get over / To get over / To get over / To get over this hill.”
These lines suggest that the narrator is trying to overcome a challenge or obstacle in his life. He repeats the phrase “to get over” several times, emphasizing his struggle.
Bridge
The bridge of the song goes like this:
“The city fathers / They’re trying to endorse / The reincarnation of Paul Revere’s horse / But the town has no need to be nervous / The ghost of Belle Starr / She hands down her wits / To Jezebel the nun.”
These lines are somewhat cryptic and difficult to interpret. They seem to refer to the town’s attempt to revive a historical figure (Paul Revere’s horse) and the presence of a ghost (Belle Starr). Jezebel the nun is also mentioned, suggesting a religious element.
Verse 3
The third verse goes like this:
“Well, I’m sitting on my doorstep / I’m mixing up a medicine / I’m turning on the television / I’m putting on the crime channel.”
These lines suggest that the narrator is spending his evening at home. He mentions mixing up a medicine, perhaps indicating that he is trying to cure an illness or ailment. He also turns on the crime channel on television, suggesting an interest in crime stories or drama.
Chorus (Refrain)
The chorus is repeated again, emphasizing the narrator’s love for spending time outside in the evening and having a good time.
Verse 4
The fourth and final verse goes like this:
“Well, pass the cornbread, honey / Have you ever said grace? / While you was hustling and bustling / And I was lying low and taking it slow.”
These lines suggest a relaxed, easy-going attitude towards life. The narrator mentions passing cornbread and asking if grace has been said, implying a communal meal. He contrasts his laid-back approach with someone else’s more active and busy lifestyle.
Conclusion
“Late In The Evening” by Paul Simon is a fun, upbeat song with a blend of genres and a catchy chorus. The lyrics suggest a love for spending time outside in the evening and enjoying life. While some of the verses and bridges may be difficult to interpret, the overall message is one of positivity and joy.
