About the song
Simon & Garfunkel’s timeless ballad, “Homeward Bound,” is a poignant exploration of longing, nostalgia, and the yearning for familiar comforts. Released in 1966, the song quickly became a beloved anthem, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Written by Paul Simon during his time in England, “Homeward Bound” is a product of both his personal experiences and his keen observation of the human condition. The song’s evocative imagery and introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a traveler’s longing for home. Simon’s wistful voice, paired with the delicate harmonies of Art Garfunkel, creates a melancholic yet comforting atmosphere.
The song’s origins are shrouded in a bit of mystery, with various locations being suggested for its composition. While Widnes railway station is often cited, Simon himself has mentioned Warrington as a possible location. Regardless of the exact spot, the song’s themes of solitude, reflection, and the allure of home resonate universally.
“Homeward Bound” has endured as a classic for its ability to evoke powerful emotions and transport listeners to their own personal memories. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal themes and the duo’s masterful songwriting. As we listen to the song, we can’t help but feel a sense of longing and a desire to return to our own “homeward bound.”
Video
Lyrics
I’m sittin’ in the railway station
Got a ticket to my destination
On a tour of one-night stands
My suitcase and guitar in hand
And every stop is neatly planned
For a poet and a one-man band
Homeward bound
I wish I was
Homeward bound
Home where my thought’s escapin’
Home where my music’s playin’
Home where my love lies waitin’
Silently for me
Every day’s an endless stream
Of cigarettes and magazines
And each town looks the same to me
The movies and the factories
And every stranger’s face I see
Reminds me that I long to be
Homeward bound
I wish I was
Homeward bound
Home where my thought’s escapin’
Home where my music’s playin’
Home where my love lies waitin’
Silently for me
Tonight I’ll sing my songs again
I’ll play the game and pretend
But all my words come back to me
In shades of mediocrity
Like emptiness in harmony
I need someone to comfort me
Homeward bound
I wish I was
Homeward bound
Home where my thought’s escapin’
Home where my music’s playin’
Home where my love lies waitin’
Silently for me
Silently for me