Lyrics: Mrs. Robinson
And here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know, wo wo wo
God bless you please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray, hey hey hey
Hey hey heyWe’d like to know a little bit about you for our files
We’d like to help you learn to help yourself
Look around you, all you see are sympathetic eyes
Stroll around the grounds until you feel at homeAnd here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know, wo wo wo
God bless you please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray, hey hey hey
Hey hey heyHide it in a hiding place where no one ever goes
Put it in your pantry with your cupcakes
It’s a little secret, just the Robinsons’ affair
Most of all, you’ve got to hide it from the kidsCoo coo ca-choo, Mrs. Robinson
Jesus loves you more than you will know, wo wo wo
God bless you please, Mrs. Robinson
Heaven holds a place for those who pray, hey hey hey
Hey hey heySitting on a sofa on a Sunday afternoon
Going to the candidates’ debate
Laugh about it, shout about it
When you’ve got to choose
Every way you look at it you loseWhere have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?
A nation turns its lonely eyes to you, wo wo wo
What’s that you say, Mrs. Robinson
‘Joltin Joe’ has left and gone away, hey hey hey
Hey hey hey
Introduction: A Song of Its Time
Released in 1968, “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel quickly became one of the defining songs of the 1960s. With its unforgettable melody, poetic lyrics, and cultural relevance, it captured the sentiments of an entire generation and became an iconic part of American music history. The song not only solidified Simon & Garfunkel’s place in music history but also resonated with the themes of disillusionment and searching for meaning that defined the era.
The Origins of “Mrs. Robinson”
“Mrs. Robinson” was written by Paul Simon and was originally created for the 1967 film The Graduate, directed by Mike Nichols. The film, starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft, tells the story of a young man, Benjamin Braddock, who has an affair with an older woman, Mrs. Robinson, which leads him into a web of confusion and self-discovery. Simon’s song became a perfect musical accompaniment to the film, capturing the emotional and societal tension of the time.
The Lyrics: A Poignant Mix of Personal and Political
On the surface, “Mrs. Robinson” tells the story of an older woman who is dissatisfied with her life, but there’s a deeper layer of societal commentary embedded in the lyrics. Paul Simon’s use of Mrs. Robinson as a symbol of an older, perhaps disillusioned generation resonated with the youth of the time. The iconic line, “Here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson, Jesus loves you more than you will know,” served as both a tribute and a critique, subtly referencing themes of faith, personal rebellion, and the breakdown of traditional American ideals.
The Cultural Impact of the Song
The release of “Mrs. Robinson” marked a significant cultural moment. The song quickly became a hit, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining on the charts for several weeks. The song’s association with The Graduate helped it transcend traditional pop music and connect with the emerging counterculture movement of the late 1960s. It’s often seen as an anthem of disillusionment, personal freedom, and the questioning of authority that was prevalent in the 1960s.
Simon & Garfunkel: A Musical Duo Like No Other
Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, known for their harmonious vocals and masterful songwriting, were at the peak of their creative powers when they recorded “Mrs. Robinson.” The duo’s ability to blend folk, pop, and rock elements made them one of the most influential acts of the 1960s. The simplicity of the song, with its gentle guitar strumming and delicate harmonies, perfectly matched the introspective lyrics and helped elevate the song to a place of timelessness.
The Lasting Legacy of “Mrs. Robinson”
“Mrs. Robinson” has since become one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most enduring songs, often associated with the cultural upheaval of the 1960s. Its influence extends far beyond its initial success—“Mrs. Robinson” is still referenced in pop culture, whether in movies, TV shows, or even political commentary. The song has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be an essential piece of the American music landscape.
In 1969, the song received a Grammy Award for Record of the Year, further cementing its place in music history. Over the years, it has been embraced by fans from various generations, making it a true classic.
Conclusion: A Timeless Anthem of Reflection
Decades after its release, “Mrs. Robinson” remains just as relevant today as it was when it first debuted. Whether you’re a fan of the 1960s or simply appreciate masterful songwriting, the song’s poignant lyrics and simple, yet elegant melody continue to resonate with listeners. Simon & Garfunkel captured the spirit of a generation with this song, making it a timeless anthem of reflection and cultural introspection.
