Simon & Garfunkel – Scarborough Fair / Canticle: A Melodic Journey Through Time
In the vast tapestry of musical history, few songs evoke such a profound sense of nostalgia and reflection as “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” by the legendary duo, Simon & Garfunkel. Released as part of their iconic 1966 album, “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” this hauntingly beautiful piece captures the essence of a bygone era while weaving in timeless themes that resonate with listeners even today.
Upon its release, “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” became an instant classic, reaching audiences far and wide with its ethereal melody and intricate harmonies. Though it did not chart as a single in the traditional sense, its presence on the album helped propel “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” to number four on the Billboard 200, solidifying Simon & Garfunkel’s place in the pantheon of folk music legends. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the masterful artistry of its creators.
The story behind “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” is as captivating as the song itself. It is based on a traditional English ballad that dates back to medieval times, telling the tale of a young man who instructs a listener to relay impossible tasks to his former lover in Scarborough. Each task is symbolically linked to the refrain of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, herbs traditionally associated with love and remembrance. The song’s haunting quality is further enhanced by Simon & Garfunkel’s decision to interlace it with an anti-war counter-melody, known as “Canticle.” This juxtaposition of old and new imbues the song with layers of meaning that speak to both personal heartache and broader social concerns.
The meaning of “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” is open to interpretation, allowing listeners to project their own experiences and emotions onto its canvas. On one level, it is a poignant reflection on lost love and the passage of time, evoking memories of days gone by with a bittersweet longing that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt the sting of separation. Yet, it also serves as a subtle commentary on the futility of war, with its counterpoint lyrics painting vivid images of soldiers marching off to battle.
For those who lived through the tumultuous 1960s, “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” embodies the spirit of an era defined by both cultural upheaval and artistic innovation. Its ethereal soundscape provides a soothing balm for weary souls, inviting listeners to pause and reflect on their own journeys through life. The delicate interplay between Paul Simon’s poetic lyrics and Art Garfunkel’s angelic vocals creates a timeless piece that transcends generations.
In revisiting “Scarborough Fair / Canticle,” one cannot help but be transported back to a time when music served as both an escape and a call to action. It reminds us that while the world may change around us, certain truths remain eternal—love and loss, peace and conflict, memory and forgetfulness. For those who cherish the power of song to capture life’s most profound moments, Simon & Garfunkel’s masterpiece offers an enduring reminder of music’s ability to touch the soul and stir the heart.