The narrator, Lincoln Duncan, is staying in a motel room next to a couple who have been loudly intimate all night. He reflects on his own past, being born into a fishing family in the Maritimes, and eventually leaving home for New England. He describes his struggles and financial difficulties, wishing he had something to sell. He encounters a young girl preaching in a parking lot, who introduces him to Pentecost and becomes a pivotal figure in his life. Later that night, they engage in a sexual encounter in the woods. Despite the innocence lost, the narrator finds solace in his guitar-playing and thanks God for his talent.

Meaning of "Duncan" by Paul Simon

The lyrics of "Duncan" by Paul Simon touch upon various themes such as identity, nostalgia, spirituality, and sexual awakening. The song presents the narrator, Lincoln Duncan, as a restless individual who is seeking something more than what his fishing family in the Maritimes can offer him. He embarks on a journey towards New England, symbolizing a desire for change and new experiences. The holes in his confidence and the worn-out knees of his jeans represent the hardships and struggles he faces along the way. Despite his financial difficulties, he yearns for something valuable to sell, which may suggest a longing for material stability.

The encounter with the young girl in the parking lot who preaches about Pentecost becomes a turning point in the narrator's life. She represents a spiritual and emotional connection that he has been searching for. Her preaching offers him a form of guidance, providing him with a sense of purpose. However, the subsequent sexual encounter in the woods signifies the loss of the narrator's innocence. This event marks a significant transition in his life, where he goes from being a lost young man to finding a connection and finally experiencing sexual awakening.

Throughout the song, the narrator finds solace in playing his guitar. It becomes an important tool for self-expression and a means of communing with a higher power. As he lies under the stars, he expresses gratitude to God for his musical talent, showcasing a deep appreciation for his fingers, which allow him to create music. This act of gratitude highlights the narrator's ability to find beauty and joy amid life's struggles and complexities.

Overall, "Duncan" is a reflective and introspective song that explores themes of personal growth, spirituality, and the transformative power of human connection. It highlights the importance of embracing change, finding solace in art, and being grateful for the talents we possess.