Hearts And Bones

Simon & Garfunkel's song 'Hearts And Bones' is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The song begins with the imagery of 'one and one-half wandering Jews,' a metaphor that likely references Paul Simon's own Jewish heritage and his relationship with Carrie Fisher, who was half-Jewish. This opening sets the stage for a journey, both literal and metaphorical, through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. The mountains, named 'The Blood of Christ,' add a layer of spiritual and existential weight to the journey, suggesting that the relationship is a pilgrimage of sorts, filled with trials and revelations.

The lyrics delve into the 'arc of a love affair,' capturing the highs and lows of a romantic relationship. The vivid imagery of 'rainbows in the high desert air' and 'mountain passes slipping into stones' evokes the fleeting beauty and inevitable challenges that come with love. The repetition of 'hearts and bones' underscores the fundamental, almost primal, connection between the two individuals, emphasizing that despite the complexities, their bond is rooted in something deeply human and enduring.

As the song progresses, it reflects on past events and the emotional scars they leave behind. The lines 'Two people were married / The act was outrageous / The bride was contagious' suggest a passionate but tumultuous union. The dialogue between the couple reveals a struggle for acceptance and understanding, with the woman asking, 'Why won't you love me / For who I am / Where I am,' and the man responding with a resigned, 'This is how I love you, baby.' This exchange highlights the tension between idealized love and the reality of human imperfections. Ultimately, the song circles back to the idea of 'hearts and bones,' suggesting that while love may be fraught with difficulties, it is also what makes us fundamentally human.