Meaning of "Learn How to Fall" by Paul Simon

"Learn How to Fall" is a metaphorical song that delves into the notion of the necessity of failure in order to achieve success. Paul Simon's lyrics convey the idea that falling and experiencing setbacks is an essential part of the learning process and growth. He suggests that one must learn how to fail gracefully before they can truly succeed. The repetition of the line "Before you learn to fly, learn how to fall" emphasizes the importance of accepting failure and the value it holds in teaching important lessons. By acknowledging that failure and hardship are inevitable, individuals can prepare themselves to handle setbacks with resilience and determination.

Simon continues to develop his metaphor by comparing the act of learning how to fall with drifting in the breeze before setting sails. This comparison suggests that individuals must be willing to adapt to unpredictable circumstances and navigate through the challenges of life before they can successfully pursue their dreams. The line "It's an occupation where the wind prevails" implies that success is not solely dependent on hard work but also on the ability to adapt and go with the flow when faced with unexpected obstacles.

The chorus of the song includes the lines "Oh and it's the same old story, ever since the world began, everybody got the runs for glory, nobody stop and scrutinize the plan." Here, Simon implies that in the pursuit of success, individuals often get caught up in the desire for recognition and glory, neglecting to analyze their plans or consider potential pitfalls. By exploring the theme of blind ambition and urging listeners to pause and scrutinize their plans, Simon highlights the importance of thoughtful decision-making and the potential consequences of taking shortcuts or rushing towards success.

Overall, "Learn How to Fall" serves as a reminder that failure and setbacks are not to be feared or avoided but embraced as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. By learning from mistakes and taking the time to analyze one's plans, individuals can better equip themselves for the journey towards achieving their goals.