Duncan
Paul Simon
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Couple in the next room bound to win a prize They've been going at it all night long Well, I'm tryin' to get some sleep But these motel walls are cheap Lincoln Duncan is my name And here's my song, here's my song My father was a fisherman My mama was a fisherman's friend And I was born in the boredom and the chowder So when I reached my prime I left my home in the Maritimes Headed down the turnpike for New England, sweet New England Holes in my confidence Holes in the knees of my jeans I was left without a penny in my pocket Ooh-oowee, I was about as destituted as a kid could be And I wished I wore a ring so I could hock it I'd like to hock it A young girl in a parkin' lot Was preaching to a crowd Singing sacred songs and reading from the Bible Well, I told her I was lost And she told all about the Pentecost And I seen that girl as the road to my survival I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know Just later on the very same night When I crept to her tent with a flashlight And my long years of innocence ended Well, she took me to the woods Sayin' "Here comes something, and it feels so good!" And just like a dog I was befriended, I was befriended Oh, oh, what a night Oh, what a garden of delight Even now that sweet memory lingers I was playing my guitar Lyin' underneath the stars Just thankin' the Lord For my fingers For my fingers I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
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Written by: Paul Simon
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Artist Background"Duncan" is a song by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon, known for his work as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel as well as his solo singles.
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AlbumThe song is featured on Paul Simon's self-titled studio album, released in 1972, his second solo studio album after Simon & Garfunkel split.
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Song CompositionThe track has instrumental components that merge Simon's folk-rock style with a distinctly Latin American sound. This style is evident in the use of the Peruvian charango, a guitar-like instrument.
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Autobiographical ElementsWhile "Duncan" is not outright autobiographical, it features themes and personal memories that Simon has experienced. The song's protagonist, Lincoln Duncan, shares Simon's middle name.
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LyricsThe lyrics tell a story of a young man from a small fishing town who embarks on a journey in search of self-discovery. This could be perceived as symbolic of Simon's artistic journey, transitioning from Simon and Garfunkel to his solo career.
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Chart PerformanceThe single "Duncan" peaked at number 52 in the United States Billboard pop songs chart and ranked at number 21 in Canada.
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Cover VersionsThe song has been covered by several artists over the years, including the indie rock band Phish and the folk singer-songwriter Sarah Harmer.
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Live Performances"Duncan" is a mainstay in Simon's live performances. He usually plays the song solo with his guitar, adding an intimate touch to his concerts.
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Song's InfluenceThe song has been noted for its storytelling elements, which have influenced many songwriters. It tells a detailed narrative within a song, a practice that was not widely popular before Simon introduced it in his songwriting.
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Critical ReceptionThe song has received critical acclaim for its unique blend of personal and universal themes, as well as its innovative instrumental composition. Music critics have hailed it as a highlight of Paul Simon's solo work.
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Citation
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"Duncan Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 9 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/829668/Paul+Simon/Duncan>.
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