The lyrics discuss the idea of writing songs about different subjects like the moon, the heart, a face, and the human race, ultimately encouraging the songwriter to choose the moon as a spiritual inspiration to create a song.

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Meaning of "Song About the Moon" by Paul Simon


The song delves into the creative process of songwriting and the inspiration behind it. Each verse presents a different subject - the moon, the heart, a face, and the human race - as potential themes for a song. The repetition of the moon as a subject suggests its timeless and universal nature, making it a perfect muse for songwriting. The moon symbolizes spirituality, longing, and mystery, providing endless creative possibilities for the songwriter. The references to the heart howling like a dog and the human face as a memory that lingers but cannot be fully recalled add depth to the idea that writing about these elements is complex and profound. Ultimately, the song encourages the songwriter to embrace the moon as a source of inspiration, invoking its spiritual essence to create a song with meaning and depth.