Meaning of "The Obvious Child" by Paul Simon

"The Obvious Child" explores themes of maturity, acceptance, and the passage of time. The narrator begins by expressing his desire for a smooth ride in life, but acknowledges that he may have lost his bite. He no longer expects to be treated like a fool and is determined to face reality head-on. The repetition of the phrase "Why deny the obvious child?" suggests that denying the truth or ignoring the inevitable only leads to unnecessary suffering. The narrator reminisces about his past, particularly a girl he knew in his youth, and their shared belief in the authenticity of songs and experiences. The mention of a road sign serves as a metaphor for the memories that guide the narrator through life.

The second verse shifts the focus to the narrator's experiences of having a family. He reflects on the joy, financial stability, and the birth of his son, Sonny. However, Sonny eventually grows up, gets married, and starts his own family, leaving the narrator in a state of contemplation. He ponders the passing of time and how life can feel like a cage. The mention of Sonny's yearbook and his idle flipping through the pages symbolizes the nostalgia and reflection that come with aging. The lyrics also address the struggles and challenges that some individuals face, highlighting the pain of losing oneself or the difficulty of reaching personal goals.

The final verse brings the focus back to the narrator and his acceptance of life's ups and downs. He acknowledges that his ride may not be as smooth as he once expected and that he may have lost some of his vigor. However, he no longer expects to be treated foolishly and accepts the reality of his situation. The repeated mention of the cross being "in the ballpark" suggests that the truth is evident and cannot be ignored. The final plea to not deny the obvious child further emphasizes the importance of embracing the truth and facing life's challenges head-on.