The lyrics of "Outrageous" by Paul Simon touch on themes of societal injustices, personal exhaustion, and the fear of losing love. Simon expresses outrage at the mistreatment of the poor and the inadequate education system while reflecting on his own frustration and weariness. He questions who will love him when his looks fade away and ultimately finds solace in the idea that God's love will endure beyond physical appearance.

Meaning of "Outrageous" by Paul Simon

The lyrics of "Outrageous" delve into the complexities of societal issues, personal struggles, and the search for enduring love. Paul Simon uses the idea of outrage to highlight the injustices and inequalities that exist in the world, drawing attention to the suffering of the poor and the deficiencies in the education system. The repetition of the question "who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?" reflects a deep-seated fear of losing superficial affections and emphasizes the transient nature of physical beauty. However, Simon ultimately finds comfort in the belief that genuine love, like that of God's, transcends external appearances and endures through hardships and imperfections. The reference to washing one's face in the summer solstice rain symbolizes a renewal of spirit and a cleansing of the soul, suggesting that true blessing and love come from within rather than external sources. Overall, the song conveys a sense of disillusionment with societal norms and personal struggles, tempered by a message of hope and resilience.