The lyrics of "The Teacher" describe a teacher of great renown leading a group of followers on a journey across mountains and forests. The teacher possesses immense power and an insatiable appetite, which both amazes and frightens the followers. The narrator expresses a sense of vulnerability and a desire to be carried home by the teacher.

Meaning of "The Teacher" by Paul Simon

The lyrics of "The Teacher" can be interpreted as an allegory for the human experience of following and learning from influential figures who possess power and knowledge beyond our own. The teacher represents a guiding force in life, leading us through challenges and uncertainties. The journey across mountains and forests symbolizes the trials and tribulations we face, while the teacher's divided nature suggests the complexity of human character and the balance of power and vulnerability within ourselves. The plea to be carried home by the teacher conveys a deep sense of longing for comfort and guidance in the face of adversity. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of power, vulnerability, guidance, and the search for identity in the midst of life's challenges.